Merz vows comeback after first vote setback in chancellor race
Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU, does not intend to give up his bid for the chancellor position despite the setback in the first vote in the Bundestag. The CDU, CSU, and SPD coalition plans to present his candidacy again.
Second round of voting in the Bundestag
Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, is determined to continue the fight for the office of chancellor even after an unexpected defeat in the first vote in the Bundestag.
Jens Spahn, leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, stated that at the request of the CDU, CSU, and SPD coalition, Merz will resubmit his candidacy for a vote.
Discussions in parliamentary groups
Jens Spahn assured that "there will be a second round of voting."
Currently, discussions are underway within the groups about the timing of the re-vote. Spahn appealed for patience, asking people to wait for the outcome of these discussions.
Result of the first vote
During the first vote, which took place on Tuesday morning, Merz did not obtain the required absolute majority of 316 votes.
In the secret ballot, he was supported by 310 deputies. Eighteen coalition deputies, despite being present in the Bundestag building, did not participate in the vote or voted against their own candidate.
The result of the first vote was considered by the media and politicians from other groups to be a severe defeat for Merz.
