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Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democrats confirmed on Monday that they will put forward Ilse Aigner as a candidate for Germany’s next head of state. The 61-year-old politician has a strong chance of securing the largely ceremonial role when the special presidential election committee convenes in late January, backed by coalition partners and sister parties.
Announcement in Berlin
Chancellor Merz announced the decision alongside Aigner during a press conference at the CDU’s Konrad Adenauer House in Berlin. Merz noted that the nomination fell on November 9, a multifaceted date symbolizing both democratic hope and the country’s historical crimes. He praised Aigner for her empathy, openness, and dedication to parliamentary democracy.
Merz stated that Aigner would bring dignity, heart, and a unifying presence to the presidency, helping to provide orientation and initiate important national debates.
Aigner’s Response to the Nomination
Aigner expressed deep emotion regarding the nomination and thanked supporters across party lines. Facing rising populist pressures, she emphasized her desire to represent Germany’s political center and bridge societal divisions.
Aigner stated her commitment to clear and accessible communication, emphasizing her long-standing connection to ordinary citizens.
Path to the Nomination and Election Process
Momentum for Aigner’s candidacy had grown as government figures expressed a preference for a female president, with the Bavarian CSU actively lobbying for a candidate from their ranks. Reports of her impending nomination emerged on Friday and were confirmed during party leadership talks over the weekend.
Current President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will complete his second five-year term next March. The special electoral committee, known as the Bundesversammlung, consists of 1,260 federal and state lawmakers and will meet in late January to choose the successor.
With support from the CDU/CSU and Social Democrats, led by Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, as well as potential backing from the Green party, Aigner holds a commanding majority on the committee.
Background on Ilse Aigner
Ilse Aigner currently serves as the speaker of the state parliament in Bavaria. Born as the youngest of four sisters to an electrician, she initially worked in her family’s business before entering political life.
Aigner started her career in the Bavarian legislature in 1994, served in the federal Bundestag from 1998, and returned to the Bavarian chamber in 2013. She also previously spent five years as the federal agriculture minister under former Chancellor Angela Merkel and has held her current role as Bavaria’s state legislature president since 2018.
