Friedrich Merz, a prominent conservative politician and former businessman, is widely considered the front-runner in Germany’s race to become the next Chancellor. A long-time member of Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Merz served as the party’s parliamentary leader from 2000 to 2002.
Merz, born in 1955, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having worked as a lawyer and businessman before entering politics. He is known for his conservative views, advocating for fiscal responsibility and reduced bureaucracy. His business acumen has been particularly appealing to many Germans who are seeking a candidate that can stimulate economic growth post-pandemic.
In the lead-up to the CDU’s leadership election in December 2018, Merz was seen as the favorite but ultimately lost to Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer. Despite this setback, he has continued to maintain a significant influence within the party and remains a strong contender for the Chancellor position.
Merz is also known for his hawkish stance on immigration, which has been a contentious issue in Germany in recent years. He has called for stricter controls on immigration and has criticized Angela Merkel’s open-door policy towards refugees.
The road to the Chancellery is never straightforward, and Merz faces stiff competition from other candidates, including Armin Laschet, the current Governor of North Rhine-Westphalia. However, with his extensive political experience, business background, and strong conservative platform, Friedrich Merz is certainly a force to be reckoned with in Germany’s political landscape.