Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is poised to become the nation's next Chancellor following a decisive victory in the recent general elections. The CDU, in alliance with the Christian Social Union (CSU), secured approximately 29% of the vote, surpassing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which garnered around 20%

Born on November 11, 1955, in Brilon, Germany, Merz has a longstanding affiliation with the CDU, dating back to 1972. He embarked on his political journey in 1989 as a Member of the European Parliament and transitioned to the Bundestag in 1994. By 2000, Merz had ascended to the role of parliamentary leader for the CDU/CSU bloc but stepped back in 2002, ceding leadership to Angela Merkel. After a hiatus from active politics starting in 2009, during which he pursued a career in law and finance, Merz returned to the political arena in 2018 following Merkel's announcement of her retirement .

The election results reflect a significant shift in Germany's political landscape, with the AfD achieving its best-ever performance. Merz now faces the intricate task of forming a coalition government, potentially involving the Social Democrats (SPD), who secured 16% of the vote, or the Greens, who obtained 12%. 

The complexity of these negotiations underscores the challenges ahead as Merz aims to establish a stable government capable of addressing Germany's economic and social issues.