Friedrich Merz – Leader of the Christian Democrats (CDU)
Friedrich Merz, a former chair of BlackRock Germany and an aviation enthusiast, is seen as a strong contender for the chancellorship. He aims to boost Germany’s struggling economy. However, his hard-line stance on migration has made it difficult for him to find partners for a coalition government.
Olaf Scholz – Current Chancellor and Social Democrat (SPD) candidate
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has faced challenges during his time in office. Rising energy prices and economic slowdown have been significant issues. His cautious approach to military aid for Ukraine has drawn mixed reactions, yet Germany is now a key supporter. Scholz has stated that he will step back from politics if the SPD does not win the upcoming election.
Robert Habeck – Green Party candidate for chancellor
Robert Habeck, a former children’s author and current vice-chancellor, has worked hard to find alternatives to Russian gas since the 2022 Ukraine invasion. He has faced criticism for shutting down nuclear plants and had to revise his plans to restrict new oil and gas heaters amid backlash.
Alice Weidel – Co-leader of AfD and chancellor candidate
Alice Weidel, previously a Goldman Sachs analyst and openly part of a same-sex marriage, aimed to present a more moderate image for the AfD party. Recently, however, she has leaned towards more extreme views, adopting terms like “remigration” and associating with radical party figures.
Christian Lindner – Leader of the Free Democrats (FDP)
Christian Lindner, who has served as finance minister in Scholz’s government, played a significant role in the coalition’s collapse over budget disputes. His dismissal led to early elections and has since caused turmoil within his party.
