In the German coalition, talk of replacing Merz arises after regional elections - Bild
Discontent with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is growing within the leadership of the Christian Democratic Union. The regional elections in September could be decisive for his political future, writes Bild.
According to the publication, members of the CDU's governing bodies, who previously avoided open criticism of the chancellor, are now openly expressing complaints about his leadership style. During one meeting, numerous party representatives criticized Merz's personnel decisions, and no one came to his defense.
The dissatisfaction intensified after a controversial cabinet reshuffle. In particular, the chancellor was criticized for dismissing Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder and for insufficient discussion of personnel decisions with the party. Bild believes that Merz is gradually losing authority both among the CDU leadership and among deputies.
Hendrik Wüst is named as a successor
The most likely candidate for the chancellorship in the event of Merz's departure is the Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, Hendrik Wüst. Following the resignation of former parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn, Bild described Wüst as a de facto unrivalled "crown prince" of the CDU.
Wüst himself has previously called talk of replacing the chancellor "nonsense" and assured Merz of his support. The party has not made any official decisions on changing the head of government.
Elections to state parliaments could be decisive. In Saxony-Anhalt, voting will take place on September 6, and in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania on September 20.
The CDU is significantly trailing the AfD
Polls do not give Merz's party reasons for optimism. In Saxony-Anhalt, the Alternative for Germany is at 41%, while the CDU is at 24%. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the AfD enjoys 36% support, the Social Democratic Party 29%, and the CDU only 9%.
The situation also remains difficult at the national level. According to a Forsa poll, the AfD has 27% support compared to 21% for the CDU/CSU bloc. Only 15% of respondents are satisfied with Merz's work, while 83% evaluate it negatively.
However, state premiers cannot dismiss the chancellor on their own. Merz must voluntarily resign, or the Bundestag must elect a new head of government by a majority vote within the framework of a constructive vote of no confidence.
Therefore, reports of Merz's possible departure immediately after the elections remain for now a political scenario being discussed inside the CDU, not a decision taken.
Sources: Bild, Infratest dimap, RTL/ntv
