Mers failed the first vote
Friedrich Mers, the leader of the German Conservatives, sensationally failed the first vote for chancellor, failing to gain the necessary majority in the Bundestag. This is the first such case in the history of post-war Germany and a warning signal for a fragile coalition.
Friedrich Mertz, who led the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) after winning the February elections, failed to secure the support of the majority of Bundestag deputies in the first round of the chancellor's election. He received 310 votes - six fewer than the required 316 votes. Thus, at least 18 deputies from his own coalition with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) did not support him.
This failure was the first such case in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany. Despite the formal coalition agreement, the political unity proved fragile - the SDPU claims that its ranks have not failed, which may indicate internal division within the CDU itself.
Bundestag Chairperson Julia Klekner postponed the session so the parties could discuss further steps. The next vote is possible no earlier than Friday, unless all political forces agree to expedited voting.
Economists have already noted that Mertz's weakening position could affect his ability to implement promised reforms, including ambitious plans to invest in defense and infrastructure. Financial markets also reacted with falling German stocks and declining bond yields.
Merz's failure puts doubt on his upcoming international visits, including planned trips to Paris, Warsaw, and Brussels, as well as participation in Victory Day commemorative events.
Meanwhile, the opposition party "Alternative for Germany" called for immediate re-election. In the event of two unsuccessful rounds of parliamentary voting, the German president can indeed dissolve the Bundestag and call for new elections.
This failure was the first such case in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany. Despite the formal coalition agreement, the political unity proved fragile - the SDPU claims that its ranks have not failed, which may indicate internal division within the CDU itself.
Bundestag Chairperson Julia Klekner postponed the session so the parties could discuss further steps. The next vote is possible no earlier than Friday, unless all political forces agree to expedited voting.
Economists have already noted that Mertz's weakening position could affect his ability to implement promised reforms, including ambitious plans to invest in defense and infrastructure. Financial markets also reacted with falling German stocks and declining bond yields.
Merz's failure puts doubt on his upcoming international visits, including planned trips to Paris, Warsaw, and Brussels, as well as participation in Victory Day commemorative events.
Meanwhile, the opposition party "Alternative for Germany" called for immediate re-election. In the event of two unsuccessful rounds of parliamentary voting, the German president can indeed dissolve the Bundestag and call for new elections.
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