The Greens have denied that they intend to put former German chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) forward for the office of President. “Merkel has already spoken on the matter herself. There is nothing to this” said Greens parliamentary leader Britta Ha ßelmann when speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on Friday. “At this point, we have neither discussed nor decided on a proposal for the presidential election”.
Merkel herself also rejected the speculation. “That’s absurd” a spokesperson for the former chancellor’s office told the “Tagesspiegel” after receiving an inquiry.
Earlier reports from “Bild” suggested that CDU leaders were worried the Greens might nominate Merkel for the presidency. To date, no former chancellor has gone on to serve as German president.
The Federal Convention is set to decide on Frank‑Walter Steinmeier’s successor in early 2027, and the CDU/CSU coalition is expected to hold the largest bloc. Calls for the country’s first female head of state remain strong.