PoliticsGermanyMerz becomes German chancellor after shock first-round loss02:22This browser does not support the video element.PoliticsGermanyJenni Graham05/06/2025May 6, 2025Friedrich Merz regained his footing in a decisive second parliamentary vote today, winning 325 votes to become Germany’s new chancellor. After a shocking early setback, the result marks a rocky start to the conservative leader’s four-year term.Copy linkAdvertisement