German Chancellor Merz Faces Pressure as CDU Eyes Wüst Replacement, May 28

By Huzaifa Zahoor

May 28, 2026

04:51 AM

3 min read

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Key Points

CDU privately discusses replacing Merz with Wüst over reform stalls and low polls.

Merz approval at 26%, 71% disapprove of coalition government.

Wüst ranks third in popularity with 33% negative ratings versus Merz's 62%.

Constitutional path exists but Wüst has not signaled interest in the role.

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Germany’s ruling CDU is quietly discussing whether to replace Chancellor Friedrich Merz with North Rhine-Westphalia Ministerpräsident Hendrik Wüst. The talks signal deep frustration over Merz’s record-low approval and stalled reforms. According to recent polling, 71% of Germans view the coalition negatively, while Merz’s personal approval sits at just 26%.

Why Merz’s Position Has Weakened

Merz faces his worst political moment since taking office. The ZDF-Politbarometer from May 22 shows 71% of Germans disapprove of the coalition’s work. Merz himself hit a personal low of 26% approval. In the latest INSA-Politikerranking, Merz ranks last among major politicians at position 20, with 62% rating him negatively.

Wüst Emerges as the Alternative

Hendrik Wüst, 50, leads Germany’s most populous state and ranks third in the INSA-Politikerranking. Only 33% rate him negatively. CDU insiders cite his near-decade of governing experience, working coalitions with the Greens, and rhetorical discipline as advantages. Reports suggest Wüst is popular and respected, contrasting sharply with Merz’s image.

Constitutional Path Exists but Faces Obstacles

Germany’s constructive vote of no confidence allows the Bundestag to elect a new chancellor with a simple majority. Merz could also resign voluntarily. However, major obstacles remain unresolved. Wüst faces a state election next year and has not signaled interest. CSU leader Markus Söder may block the move. Merz’s team dismisses the speculation as naive and dangerous.

Merz Pushes Back Against Speculation

Merz’s office called the discussion a “dangerous appetite for stirring trouble” and accused speculators of misunderstanding the constitution. One source close to Merz said he takes criticism deeply and could resign if reforms fail. Another source countered that Merz has the stamina to keep his hard-won post. The talks remain confined to small CDU circles and WhatsApp groups of party leaders.

Final Thoughts

The CDU’s private discussions reveal a party in crisis, not a concrete plan. Even if a chancellor swap were attempted, it would solve none of the coalition’s core problems with the SPD or the structural challenges facing Germany.

FAQs

Can Germany’s chancellor be replaced without a new election?

Yes. The Bundestag can elect a new chancellor by majority vote through constructive no confidence. Merz’s voluntary resignation would also trigger a new Bundestag election.

Why is Hendrik Wüst being discussed as an alternative?

Wüst has 33% negative ratings versus Merz’s 62%. He brings nine years of governing experience leading Germany’s largest state, North Rhine-Westphalia.

Has Wüst said he wants to be chancellor?

No. Wüst has shown no chancellor ambitions and faces a state election next year. He has not indicated willingness to leave his current position.

Disclaimer:
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About Author

Huzaifa Zahoor

Co Founder

Huzaifa Zahoor is the engineer who built Meyka. He has spent years writing Python, training AI models, and building data pipelines specifically for financial markets. His technical articles have reached over 30,000 readers on Medium, so he knows how to make complex things easy to follow. If this article touches on how the tools work, he is the person who actually built them.