◆1 source
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed support for the Evangelical Church in Germany’s intention to work to protect democracy. He said that democracy can make use of conflict and expressed pride in the church.
2 sources
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he wants President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to be succeeded by a woman, according to sources within his party. The mainly ceremonial office has never been held by a woman.
7 sources
Germany’s governing parties nominated Ilse Aigner of the CSU for the federal presidency, succeeding Frank-Walter Steinmeier after his second term. Chancellor Friedrich Merz formally nominated Aigner, and she and CSU leader Markus Söder announced the nomination at a press conference. Aigner, president of the Bavarian state parliament, would be Germany’s first female federal president and the first from the CSU if elected. Her election is expected in January; the presidency is a largely ceremonial office.