Green politician Anton Hofreiter cautions Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) against speculating already about a second term. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” Friday edition, Hofreiter said, “Chancellor Merz would do well not to be thinking about his next mandate now or preparing for his own survival-the times are too critical”.
He added that Merz should instead focus on turning his domestic and foreign‑policy statements into action. Hofreiter also notes that voters will ultimately decide whether Merz stays in office for another term, or even longer.
At an election event in Trier on Wednesday evening, Merz remarked, “I still plan to keep it long”. He was referring to his father reaching the age of 102 in January.
