“German Trump” is close to leading the country.. Who is Friedrich Mertz?

According to a report published by the American newspaper Politico, Merz It focuses on repositioning Germany amid enormous global challenges ranging from industrial decline to war in Europe.

Merz said in a video message after announcing his candidacy: “Germany must return to being a source of admiration for the world, not a source of confusion, I will work hard to rebuild a Germany we are proud of.”

These ambitions come to light… Conservative Christian Democratic Union of parties Mertz led the polls, with 32 percent support, after the collapse of the ruling coalition of left-wing parties last November.

The date of early elections has been set for next February 23, which increases the chances of the 69-year-old Merc to realize his old dream of taking over the position of chancellor.

However, the circumstances surrounding Merz’s return reflect the atmosphere of a major political and economic crisis in Germany. With the growing influence of extremist parties, the slowing of the German economy and the decline of Berlin’s role as a leader in Europe, the ability any national leader to overcome these challenges seems limited.

I’ve always relied Germany It relies on 3 basic pillars to ensure its security and prosperity:

• Defense protection provided by the United States.
• Open international trade to support its export-oriented economy.
• Cheap energy from Russia.

But these pillars have come under severe pressure in recent years, putting the German economy in the face of an unprecedented crisis.

As Mertz prepares to take power, the political landscape lacks a new strategic vision to replace these outdated foundations.

A conservative vision

Merz presents a conservative plan to reorient German politics, including:

• Reduction of social benefits.
• Reduction in the number of asylum seekers.
• Encouraging private investment by easing regulatory rules.
• Increase military spending.
• Maintain financial discipline.

But the question remains to what extent these policies are able to achieve radical changes in the conditions of a deep economic and political crisis.

Merkel’s legacy

Mertz faces major challenges in breaking away from the former chancellor’s legacy Angela Merkelwhich dominated the German political scene for 16 years.

Merz left parliament in 2002 after Merkel ousted him as party leader, but made a strong return to political life after the 2021 election, having returned the Christian Democratic Party to its right-wing tendencies.

Mertz is seen as the candidate most poised to take on US President-elect Donald Trump, especially in light of the tense history between Trump and Merkel, and he has vowed to vigorously defend German interests as he prepares to strike political deals to improve cooperation between the two. . countries.

As Mertz approaches the chancellorship, the biggest challenge remains how to deal with the complex crises facing Germany, both domestically and internationally.

While Mertz promises clear positions and new policies, his success will depend on his ability to balance national ambitions with global pressures.