Bild: CDU discusses possible replacement of Merz
In the leadership of the Christian Democratic Union, a scenario for the possible replacement of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz with another politician is being discussed.
This is reported by Bild, citing sources.
According to the newspaper, such discussions are taking place both among members of the CDU's governing bodies and among prominent party representatives. The discussions occur in closed chats and small groups, as supporters of this scenario fear leaks to the press.
As Bild notes, a change of chancellor is theoretically possible through a constructive vote of no confidence in the Bundestag. In this case, deputies must elect a new head of government by majority vote. Early elections are not required.
Among possible successors to Merz, according to the publication, North Rhine-Westphalia Prime Minister Hendrik Wüst, who is considered the favorite, as well as Hesse head Boris Rhein and Saxony Premier Michael Kretschmer are being considered.
At the same time, sources assess Merz's readiness to leave the post differently. Some claim that the chancellor takes criticism painfully and could resign in case of reform failures, while others are confident that he will fight for his position to the end.
The publication also writes that the Social Democratic Party of Germany does not rule out such a development.
According to the latest ratings, Merz ranks last in popularity among leading German politicians, and the CDU trails Alternative for Germany by seven percentage points. Against the backdrop of the economic crisis, the ruling coalition has so far failed to achieve noticeable success in implementing key reforms.
