Germany is on the brink of a political transformation, and at the center of it stands Friedrich Merz. The 69-year-old leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is poised to become the country’s next chancellor after his party secured a projected 28 percent of the vote.
But as the dust settles on the election, one pressing question remains: who will Merz align with to form a government?
A longtime figure in conservative politics, Merz has never been known for his charisma, yet he promises decisive leadership in a time of uncertainty. His bold attempt last month to push tougher migration laws, even with the backing of far-right votes, demonstrated his willingness to break taboos. Though the bid ultimately failed, it sent shockwaves through Germany’s political landscape and marked a definitive shift away from the centrist policies of his former rival, Angela Merkel.
This is not Merz’s first brush with political controversy. Once seen as a rising star within the CDU, his ambitions were cut short when Merkel outmaneuvered him in the early 2000s. In response, he left parliament in 2009 and embarked on a lucrative corporate career, including a stint at BlackRock. Many believed he was finished with politics. But Merz had other plans.
Public Life
His return to public life in 2018 signaled a rightward shift for the CDU. He positioned himself as the man to reclaim conservative voters who had drifted toward the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD). His supporters hail him as the leader who can restore Germany’s economic and political standing, while critics warn of his flirtations with the far right.
Merz’s leadership style is pragmatic, if not polarizing. At a January event at Berlin’s five-star Hotel de Rome, he addressed an audience eager to hear his vision for Germany’s role in global affairs. It was a stark contrast to two decades ago when his political career seemed all but over. Now, he stands on the cusp of leading Europe’s largest economy.
Beyond politics, Merz is an intriguing character. A licensed pilot, he once sparked public outcry for flying his private jet to attend a colleague’s wedding. Born into a prominent conservative Catholic family in Brilon, his rebellious youth complete with motorcycle escapades and school pranks seems at odds with his disciplined public image.
Despite his attempts to project a more relatable persona, Merz has struggled to connect with younger voters and women. His stance on issues like marital rape legislation in the 1990s he voted against a bill that criminalized it, arguing that existing laws were sufficient continues to haunt him. His wife, Charlotte, a judge, has defended his views, insisting that he is deeply respectful of women’s rights.
The Rest of It
Merz’s journey to power has been anything but smooth. Twice he failed in bids to lead the CDU, only succeeding on his third attempt in 2021. His resilience speaks to his deep-rooted ambition, but it also highlights the resistance he has faced within his own party.
The specter of Merkel looms large over his leadership. Their rivalry, dating back decades, shaped modern German conservatism. While Merkel’s centrist approach made the CDU a broad tent, Merz’s policies signal a shift toward a more traditional, right-leaning stance. His recent maneuvering with the AfD has drawn sharp criticism, including rare public rebukes from Merkel herself.
For all his calculated risks, Merz now faces the challenge of forming a viable coalition. His party’s victory was not overwhelming, and navigating Germany’s fragmented political landscape will require careful negotiation. The choices he makes in the coming weeks will determine whether he emerges as a strong leader or a divisive figure struggling to hold a fragile government together.
The European Union is watching closely. A senior EU diplomat described Brussels as “anxiously awaiting his arrival,” hoping he will bring stability after years of political deadlock in Germany. His approach to migration, economic policy, and foreign relations will set the tone not just for Germany but for Europe as a whole.
Merz’s moment has arrived, but his legacy is yet to be written. Will he be the steady hand that guides Germany through turbulent times, or will his high-stakes political gambles backfire?
One thing is certain: Friedrich Merz is not a man afraid to take risks.
