Germany's conservative parties have officially selected Friedrich Merz, currently the opposition leader, as their candidate for chancellor in the upcoming federal elections in 2025, setting the stage for a significant political contest against the incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Merz's selection highlights the internal dynamics of the conservative bloc comprising the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU), as they seek to mount a united front against the ruling Social Democrats represented by Scholz.
With Markus Soder opting not to pursue the candidacy, Merz's new candidacy marks a noteworthy moment in his political career, having previously contended for the nomination in the early 2000s.
The decision was made public by the CDU and CSU, and the official announcement is expected at a press conference, indicating a strategic move for the conservative bloc ahead of the elections.
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