Who is Friedrich Merz: Germany’s New Leader and His Political Journey/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s conservative Union bloc, is set to become chancellor after winning the national election. Known for his pro-European stance and tough immigration policies, Merz aims to revitalize Germany’s economy and strengthen EU unity. Despite a long political career, this marks his first government role.
Friedrich Merz: Quick Looks at Germany’s Incoming Chancellor
- Election victory: Merz’s Union bloc wins with 28.5% of the vote; poised to become Germany’s 10th postwar chancellor
- Top priorities: Revive Germany’s economy, curb irregular migration, and unify Europe against U.S. and Russian pressures
- Political journey: Rose to prominence in the early 2000s but was sidelined by Angela Merkel; made a comeback in 2021
- Leadership style: Embraces confrontation to spark debate; known for direct and sometimes provocative rhetoric
- Controversies: Faced criticism for a migration motion backed by far-right AfD votes, though he denies any cooperation
- Personal background: Lawyer, pilot, and rural representative with international business experience, including at BlackRock
- Merkel rivalry: Longstanding tension with former Chancellor Merkel shaped his political career
- European vision: Focuses on restoring EU unity amid strained U.S.-Europe relations under the Trump administration
Who is Friedrich Merz: Germany’s New Leader and His Political Journey
Deep Look
BERLIN (AP) — Friedrich Merz, the man set to become Germany’s next chancellor, has promised to strengthen European unity, tackle Germany’s economic stagnation, and confront geopolitical challenges posed by both the United States and Russia. After securing a victory with his center-right Union bloc in the national election, the 69-year-old politician is preparing to lead Europe’s largest economy amid heightened global tensions.
Merz’s ascent marks the culmination of a decades-long political journey, one marked by rivalry with former Chancellor Angela Merkel, a temporary exit from politics, and a determined comeback. Despite his extensive experience, he enters the chancellery without having held a government post—a rare occurrence in modern German politics.
From Rivalry to Redemption
Merz’s political rise began in the 1990s, but it was his rivalry with Merkel that defined much of his early career. Both ambitious and close in age, they clashed over leadership within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Merkel eventually sidelined Merz in 2002, consolidating her power and leading Germany for 16 years.
In her memoir Freedom, Merkel reflected on their dynamic: “We both wanted to be the boss.” Though she acknowledged Merz’s leadership qualities, their differing visions for Germany’s center-right political direction led to years of tension.
Following his parliamentary departure in 2009, Merz shifted to the private sector, leading BlackRock’s German branch. His business experience and international exposure—regularly traveling to the U.S. and China—have bolstered his reputation as a globally minded leader.
Political Comeback and Leadership Style
Merz returned to politics after Merkel stepped down as CDU leader in 2018 but lost two leadership contests before finally taking charge in 2021. His political approach contrasts with Merkel’s cautious style; Merz embraces directness, believing confrontation can spark meaningful debate.
“Merz’s strategy is to provoke discussion rather than avoid conflict,” said Volker Resing, author of Friedrich Merz: His Path to Power. This approach resonates with voters seeking bold solutions to Germany’s pressing issues, including economic stagnation and migration concerns.
Economic Revival and European Unity
Central to Merz’s platform is economic revitalization. He pledges to strengthen Germany’s industrial base, reduce bureaucracy, and foster innovation. Markets responded positively to his election victory, with German stocks rising on hopes of stable and business-friendly policies.
Internationally, Merz emphasizes a unified European front. With the Trump administration’s foreign policies straining transatlantic relations, Merz sees a pressing need for EU cohesion.
“We are under massive pressure from both sides,” he said, referring to challenges from Washington and Moscow. “My absolute priority is to create unity in Europe.”
Germany’s role as Ukraine’s second-largest arms supplier will continue under Merz, though he acknowledges the complexity of European diplomacy amid U.S.-Russia tensions.
Migration and Domestic Challenges
Migration remains a divisive issue in German politics, and Merz has taken a firm stance. Following a deadly knife attack in Bavaria last month, he introduced a motion to toughen border controls—a move approved with support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
While Merz insists he does not collaborate with AfD, critics accused him of breaking a political taboo. Merkel publicly rebuked him, and mass protests erupted across Germany. Despite the backlash, Merz stands by his position:
“We must ensure Germany’s borders are secure.”
Personal Life and Interests
Born and raised in Germany’s rural Sauerland region, Merz maintains deep ties to his community. Married to Charlotte Merz, a judge, he is a father of three and known for championing traditional family values.
Beyond politics, Merz is an avid pilot. He often flies his own small plane to Berlin for parliamentary sessions—a hobby he describes as liberating.
“Above the clouds, that’s freedom,” he once remarked.
Looking Ahead
Forming a coalition government is Merz’s immediate challenge. While he has ruled out working with AfD, talks with the center-left Social Democrats and the Greens are underway.
“Germany can’t afford drawn-out negotiations,” Merz emphasized. “We must act swiftly.”
As Europe navigates economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and internal divisions, expectations for Merz’s leadership are high. Whether he can balance domestic demands with international diplomacy will define his chancellorship—and Germany’s role on the global stage.
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