Friedrich Merz Nominated as Conservative Chancellor Candidate for Upcoming German Elections

Germany's conservative leaders have nominated CDU chief Friedrich Merz as their chancellor candidate for the next federal election. Merz aims to steer the party to the right, focusing on migration and economic policies. The decision, backed by Markus Soeder, seeks to avoid past campaign mistakes.

The leaders of Germany's conservative factions have officially put forward Christian Democrat Union (CDU) chief Friedrich Merz as their candidate for chancellor in the upcoming federal election, according to a statement by Markus Soeder, head of Bavaria's conservatives.

By stepping aside, Soeder paves the way for Merz, 68, a noted economic liberal who has steered the CDU to the right since taking leadership in 2022. Merz is known for calling for stricter migration policies and aims to advance Germany economically. Current opinion polls show the conservative bloc leading, outstripping the combined support for the ruling coalition parties.

The nomination requires party approval, but it is almost assured as Merz's only potential rival, Hendrik Wuest, has withdrawn and offered his backing. The early decision seeks to prevent internal disputes that marred the conservatives in the 2021 elections. Despite his popularity within the party, an INSA poll indicates that Merz has limited voter appeal, with only 25% of voters favoring him directly for chancellor.

(With inputs from agencies.)