Friedrich Merz, once considered a political has-been, is now within striking distance of fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming the Chancellor of Germany.
After a long and tumultuous journey, the 69-year-old politician turned banker is once again leading his party, the CDU, into the spotlight after securing 29% of the vote in the February 23 snap election.
The Road to Power: Merz’s Early Political Life
Born in 1955 in what was then West Germany, Merz showed an early interest in politics, particularly due to his staunch anti-communist beliefs.
He joined the youth wing of the conservative CDU while still in school and later pursued a career in law.
His political career began to take shape in 1989 when he was elected as a member of the European Parliament.
By 1994, he had earned a seat in Germany’s Bundestag and quickly became known as a prominent member of the CDU’s pro-business, right-wing faction.
He formed a close relationship with Wolfgang Schäuble, the CDU’s leader from 1991 to 2000, positioning himself as a future chancellor candidate.
A Bitter Power Struggle with Angela Merkel
However, Merz’s path to the top was not without obstacles.
In the early 2000s, he clashed with Angela Merkel for control of the CDU.
Ultimately, Merkel’s centrist approach triumphed, and Merz was pushed out of the limelight.
After his defeat, Merz took a step back from politics, criticizing Merkel’s leadership of the party, which he called “idle.”
The two were never on the best of terms, and Merz felt disconnected from the direction the CDU was taking under Merkel.
A Break from Politics and a Successful Private Sector Career
In 2009, Merz left parliament and transitioned to the private sector.
He returned to practicing law and also took on leadership roles in various organizations, including Atlantik-Brücke, a lobby advocating for stronger transatlantic relations.
He also joined the boards of several corporations, where he became a reputed multimillionaire.
Despite stepping away from politics, Merz’s influence continued to grow in other sectors, adding experience outside of the political arena that would later benefit him when he made his return.
Merz’s Return to Politics: A New Era for the CDU
When Merkel announced she would be stepping down in 2018, Merz saw an opportunity to re-enter the political sphere.
He campaigned on a right-wing platform but was unsuccessful in his bids to become CDU leader in 2018 and 2021.
However, after the CDU’s crushing defeat in the 2021 election, Merz finally emerged as the party leader.
Since taking charge, he has worked to shift the CDU’s policies away from the centrist position that dominated Merkel’s tenure.
Merz’s Controversial Stance on Immigration and Economic Policy
One of Merz’s most notable shifts has been his stance on immigration.
Under Merkel, Germany had a relatively open immigration policy, allowing millions of refugees, particularly from Syria, to settle in the country.
However, Merz has distanced himself from this policy, even voting with the far-right AfD party on an immigration bill, which caused controversy and led to condemnation from other political figures, including Merkel herself.
Merz has also hinted at relaxing Germany’s “debt brake,” which limits how much the government can borrow.
This could pave the way for greater investment in the country’s aging infrastructure, which has struggled with underfunding in recent years.
A Strained Relationship with Trump and a Focus on Europe
As a self-proclaimed Atlanticist, Merz has long been a strong supporter of U.S.-European relations.
However, his views have shifted in recent years, particularly with the return of Donald Trump to the White House.
Merz has openly criticized Trump for his comments on Ukraine and his stance toward Europe, stating that Trump “doesn’t care about Europe.”
Merz’s comments have highlighted the growing divide between European leaders and the U.S. under Trump’s influence.
Building a Coalition: What’s Next for Merz and the CDU?
With the election results in, Merz now faces the challenge of forming a coalition government, a task that could take weeks or even months.
He has ruled out any alliance with the far-right AfD party and is focusing on potential coalitions with the SPD in what would be a “grand coalition.”
Other possible outcomes include a “Kenya coalition” with the Greens or even a “Jamaica coalition” if the FDP enters parliament and teams up with the CDU and Greens.
Personal Life: A Family Man and Aviation Enthusiast
Outside of politics, Merz has been married to Charlotte Gass since 1981, and the couple shares three children.
Known for his love of aviation, Merz reportedly owns two private jets, a decision his wife initially opposed until their children had grown up.
Despite his busy political career, Merz’s personal life remains rooted in family, and his passion for flying is a significant part of his identity.
Friedrich Merz’s Vision for Germany’s Future
As Merz moves closer to the role of Chancellor, his vision for Germany’s future is beginning to take shape.
He is focused on revitalizing Germany’s economy, tightening immigration policies, and strengthening ties with Europe.
However, with a deeply divided political landscape, Merz faces significant challenges in forming a government that can unite the country and steer it toward a prosperous future.
Merz’s Journey from Defeat to Triumph
Friedrich Merz’s political journey has been one of remarkable comebacks and setbacks.
From his early days as a young conservative to his power struggles with Angela Merkel and his eventual return to the CDU, Merz’s persistence has brought him to the precipice of political greatness.
Now, with the chance to become Germany’s next Chancellor, Merz is poised to leave a lasting mark on the country’s political landscape.
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