German lawmakers are set to vote Tuesday on whether Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), will become Germany’s next chancellor — the country’s 10th since the end of World War II. Merz is aiming to succeed outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz following the collapse of his coalition government last year. If elected, he would lead Europe’s most populous nation and largest economy, with responsibilities ranging from handling the war in Ukraine and U.S. trade tensions to addressing economic stagnation and the growing influence of the far-right, anti-immigrant AfD party.

To secure the chancellorship, Merz must win the support of at least 316 out of 630 Bundestag members. If he falls short, lawmakers have 14 days to select a candidate by absolute majority. Failing that, Germany’s president may either appoint the leading vote-getter or call new national elections. The vote coincides with the eve of the 80th anniversary of Germany’s surrender in World War II, taking place in the historic Reichstag building, where remnants of Soviet graffiti still remain.

Merz, if confirmed, will face growing concerns over the AfD, recently designated a right-wing extremist group by Germany’s domestic intelligence service. The AfD, which came second in February’s national elections, has come under increased surveillance due to its rhetoric against migrants and refugees. This move drew criticism from U.S. officials, including Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, but Germany's Foreign Ministry defended the decision. Merz has not publicly commented on the issue.

The proposed governing coalition includes Merz’s CDU, its Bavarian ally the Christian Social Union (CSU), and Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD). Together, they hold 328 Bundestag seats. The coalition aims to boost economic growth, increase defense spending, enforce stricter migration policies, and modernize infrastructure. This partnership marks a return to a familiar alliance, with the CDU and SPD having governed together in past decades — including during Angela Merkel’s long tenure. Merz’s team includes Johann Wadephul as the proposed foreign minister, a role last held by a CDU member in the 1960s.