Friedrich Merz fails to secure majority in first vote for German chancellor

Germany’s conservative leader Friedrich Merz suffered an unexpected setback on Tuesday after failing to win a parliamentary majority in his first bid to become chancellor, marking an unprecedented moment in modern German political history.

Despite leading his party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), to victory in February’s federal elections and securing a governing coalition, Merz fell six votes short of the 316 needed to secure an absolute majority in the 630-seat Bundestag.

The vote concluded with Merz receiving just 310 votes, despite his coalition with a centre-left partner holding enough seats on paper to deliver a win.

The result sent shockwaves through Berlin and prompted immediate speculation about dissent within his fragile alliance. Bundestag officials quickly scheduled a second vote for Tuesday afternoon, as required under parliamentary procedure.

“This is not the result we had hoped for,” Merz told reporters after the vote. “But we remain committed to forming a stable government. I will continue speaking with members of the coalition to understand today’s outcome.”

While the German constitution allows for an unlimited number of votes within a 14-day period, the clock has now started ticking. If no candidate secures an absolute majority by the end of the two weeks, the Bundestag can elect a chancellor with a simple majority in a final vote—opening the door to further political maneuvering or even a potential minority government.

Observers pointed to the surprising defection of at least 18 lawmakers within Merz’s coalition bloc. While their identities remain unclear, the move underscores the internal divisions that have dogged the alliance since negotiations concluded in March.

Merz’s CDU emerged as the largest party in February’s election, reclaiming power after four years in opposition. His platform, emphasizing economic reform and stronger border controls, appealed to voters amid rising concerns over inflation and migration.

Tuesday’s failed vote adds new uncertainty to Germany’s post-election landscape. If Merz continues to fall short, his mandate could weaken further, raising the possibility of alternative candidates emerging from within his own party—or even from the centre-left.

Political analysts warn that prolonged deadlock could undermine Germany’s credibility in Europe at a time when the continent faces major security and economic challenges.

A second vote is expected later today, but whether Merz can secure the necessary support remains to be seen.