Germany news: CDU re-elects Chancellor Merz as party leader
Deutsche Welle
February 21, 2026
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was re-elected as the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) at their party conference in Stuttgart, securing 91.2% of the vote. During his speech, Merz criticized the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), accusing them of prioritizing their own interests over national unity and political stability. He also warned against rising authoritarianism in Germany, emphasizing that while people may crave order during times of upheaval, history has shown such tendencies to lead to negative outcomes. Merz highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong industrial base for Germany's future, calling for reforms to adapt to global changes.
The conference marked a significant moment as former Chancellor Angela Merkel made her first appearance since leaving office in 2021. Her presence was seen as a reconciliatory gesture toward Merz, who represents the CDU's conservative wing, and who had previously faced criticism from Merkel over political disagreements. Merz also discussed Germany's foreign policy challenges, including strained relations with the United States and the growing risks of global conflict in an increasingly unpredictable world order.
Merz reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Ukraine without hesitation, aligning with broader European concerns about security and stability. His speech underscored the CDU's focus on domestic reforms, particularly addressing aging social policies like pensions, while advocating for stronger industrial and technological progress. This reflects a shift in Germany's political landscape, with Merz positioning himself as a leader navigating both internal party dynamics and external geopolitical challenges.
The re-election of Merz signals a decisive turn for the CDU under his leadership, as he seeks to balance conservative principles with progressive reforms. Merkel's attendance at the conference marked an effort to bridge generational divides within the party and reaffirm its role as a key player in German politics.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/21/2026