Markus Söder, the Minister-President of Bavaria and Chairman of the CSU, has dismissed speculation regarding a potential leadership change within the CDU. Speaking to Bild am Sonntag, Söder stated that even if alternative candidates were considered, they would inevitably face the same challenges-specifically, maneuvering against an SPD that he believes resists necessary reforms. He also criticized the Social Democratic Party, calling it a “bad signal” for them to start questioning everything immediately following the recent election results.
When questioned about whether Friedrich Merz was still the right Chancellor, the Bavarian Minister-President affirmed that Merz “stands for reforms.” In response to mounting rumors suggesting a revolt against the party leader, Söder clarified the situation, saying that discussions about parties and individuals were natural. He noted that Merz is aware of this internal conversation and that the election results, along with his own approval ratings, have affected him. However, Söder urged the Union parties to remain united and avoid being divided by the AfD.
Söder firmly ruled out any possibility of a downfall for Merz, especially within his own party. While clarifying that he is not responsible for the CDU as he is not the chairman, he assured the public that for the CSU, the possibility was completely off the table. Although he recognizes that there is a need for internal improvement within the Chancellery, he believes there is no reason for personnel consequences. He concluded that while the Union is currently experiencing a “severe downturn, perhaps the worst one imaginable,” this should not be a reason to surrender.
