Germany Elects Friedrich Merz as New Chancellor

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s conservative bloc, has officially become the country’s new chancellor after securing enough support in a parliamentary vote.

Merz, 69, received 325 votes in a secret ballot held in the Bundestag on May 6, nine more than the 316 needed for a majority. His victory makes him the head of a new coalition government between his CDU/CSU alliance and the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), which previously led under former Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier formally appointed Merz shortly after the vote. His win came after a failed first round of voting, in which he fell short with 310 votes. On May 5, Merz declared, “We are living in an era of profound change and great uncertainty. That is why we recognize our historic responsibility—to lead this coalition to success.”

As chancellor, Merz has pledged to revive Germany’s struggling economy and strengthen its leadership role in Europe, while navigating the global uncertainty sparked by Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency.

Trump has placed heavy pressure on European allies, criticizing them for underfunding NATO and slapping tariffs on imports—moves widely seen as damaging to Germany’s export-driven economy.

Trump’s threats to withdraw support from NATO have raised concerns for Merz, a staunch transatlanticist who has openly questioned America’s reliability as a security partner. He has called on Europe to enhance its own defense capabilities in response.

(Sources: Reuters, AFP)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!