Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s conservative CDU/CSU alliance, failed to secure the chancellorship in the first round of parliamentary voting on Tuesday. The unprecedented outcome marks the first time since World War II that a candidate for chancellor did not win initial support in the Bundestag.
Merz received only 310 votes, falling short of the 316 required for an outright majority, despite his coalition holding 328 seats. Three lawmakers abstained, one ballot was invalid, and nine members were absent. This failure has sparked political uncertainty in Berlin, with the Bundestag now granted 14 days to elect a candidate with a majority. If a candidate fails again, the German president can either appoint the top vote-getter or call for new elections.
The vote had been expected to confirm Merz, who had long been considered Germany’s next chancellor-in-waiting since his party’s electoral victory earlier this year. He campaigned on promises to revive the struggling economy, reduce illegal immigration, and bolster Germany’s position in Europe. His business background and coalition strength had made his election appear certain until Tuesday’s surprise outcome.
The more right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which gained over 20% of the vote in February’s general election, celebrated the failed vote. “Merz should step aside and the way should be cleared for a general election,” said AfD co-leader Alice Weidel, calling it a “good day for Germany.”
Merz warned earlier this week of “times of profound change, of profound upheaval … and of great uncertainty,” stressing a need for firm leadership. The CDU-led alliance had already prepared a massive fiscal package to rebuild infrastructure and strengthen the military. Merz also pledged tighter border controls and an end to former Chancellor Merkel’s open-door migration policy.
The unexpected deadlock occurs amid international tensions, including renewed scrutiny from President Donald Trump, who has criticized Germany’s low NATO contributions and trade surplus with the U.S.
