In contrast to the CDU's stance, Merz has been addressing various issues, including the need for bureaucracy reduction and a strong stance against the AfD, which he categorically rejects.

Merz has not definitively excluded the possibility of working with the Greens or their leader Robert Habeck, despite previous ambivalence regarding coalition partnerships.

Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU, is positioning himself as a candidate for Chancellor in the upcoming Bundestag elections scheduled for February 23, 2025, with the Union party currently leading in polls.

Despite the favorable polling, tensions persist within the CDU/CSU alliance, particularly between Merz and CSU leader Markus Söder, although Merz downplays these disputes as minor.

While Söder publicly supports Merz's bid for Chancellor, there are underlying tensions and competition for influence between the two leaders.

Both leaders recognize the importance of their alliance in shaping the future direction of the Union party and its electoral strategy ahead of the elections.

Post-election, the Union will need to find a coalition partner, as they are unlikely to achieve an outright majority; Söder has ruled out collaboration with the Greens, while Merz remains open to various options including the SPD.

Current polling suggests that a coalition between the CDU/CSU and SPD may not achieve a majority after the elections, necessitating the search for a coalition partner.

Söder's recent speech criticized the Berlin government, asserting that rural areas possess more common sense than those in the capital.

The Union's election program opposes any reform of the debt brake, contrasting with the SPD and Greens who advocate for such reforms to facilitate future investments.

Additionally, the Union opposes tax increases, while the SPD and Greens propose higher taxes on the wealthy, raising questions about potential post-election negotiations.

A recent campaign event in Brilon attracted over 1,000 attendees, many dressed in traditional Bavarian attire, highlighting the importance of local support in the election.