Germany’s Political Thriller Continues: New Vote After Merkel Ally’s Failure

A political thriller is unfolding in Germany as the nation grapples with shock after Friedrich Merz’s unsuccessful bid for Chancellor in the German Parliament. The second round of voting to elect Friedrich Merz as Chancellor will take place in the Bundestag at 16:15 (Greek time). According to Lars Klingbeil, leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the decision to hold a repeat vote tonight was agreed upon by parliamentary groups from the Christian Union (CDU/CSU), SPD, Greens, and the Left. In the first vote, Merz failed to secure the required majority of 316 out of 630 votes. He garnered 310 votes in favor, 307 against, with three abstentions and one invalid vote. Nine members were absent during the process. Shockingly, 18 lawmakers from the governing coalition did not vote for Merz, delivering a significant blow to both him and the government. However, Christian Democrats and Social Democrats insist that these leaks did not come from their side, indirectly pointing fingers at others. The Greens have reiterated they will not support Merz under any circumstances.