Merz secures backing against chancellor swap speculation

Days of rumours about a possible chancellor swap in the Union get a clear answer today: The CDU leadership closes ranks behind Friedrich Merz. At an internal retreat in the Sauerland, Merz and North Rhine-Westphalia CDU chief Hendrik Wüst meet – precisely the politician whose name circulated in speculation as a potential rival candidate.

Wüst assures Merz of the full support of CDU North Rhine-Westphalia and explicitly warns against "personnel speculation". The minister-president calls the rumour mill "nonsense" and thereby emphasises that there is no basis for a change at the top. Merz for his part praises Wüst's work in North Rhine-Westphalia – mutual back-patting intended to demonstrate unity.

Speculation in the Union

Speculation had intensified last week after alleged deliberations in the Union about a chancellor swap became public. Several Union politicians reportedly discussed internally whether Merz is the right choice for the chancellorship. The Sauerland meeting is now the first major public response to these rumours – and it is unambiguous.

The CDU leadership demonstrates unity at the Sauerland meeting by deliberately appearing together and blocking out speculation. This is also meant to signal to the outside world that the Union is moving forward united into the tasks ahead. In parallel, Merz visits the grave of Walter Lübcke and meets relatives of the murdered Kassel government president – an appointment that shows the chancellor is also engaging with the Union's historical responsibilities.