The photo collection highlights significant moments surrounding the unsuccessful election of Friedrich Merz as Chancellor in the German Bundestag on May 6, 2025. Curated by AP photo editors, the images capture the emotions and atmosphere in the parliament as members gathered for this pivotal voting process.
Friedrich Merz, the candidate for the Chancellorship from the CDU party, experienced a turbulent day as he navigated the first round of voting. Multiple images depict his reaction after realizing that he had fallen short of the necessary votes for election. In one striking photo, Merz walks through the plenary of the Bundestag following the announcement of the voting results, which did not favor him on this occasion. A similar image captures his disappointment as he reacts to the news that he was not elected Chancellor, with the emotional weight of the moment evident in his expressions.
In addition to Merz, the photo collection includes various perspectives from within the Bundestag. For instance, lawmakers are shown waiting for the session to commence, emphasizing the anticipation and tension in the room before the voting process began. Among them, party leaders such as Jens Spahn from the CDU and Lars Klingbeil from the SPD were seen, indicating the political dynamics at play during this critical election.
The atmosphere in the parliament is further characterized by images of leadership reactions. Alice Weidel, the leader of the AfD, is photographed gesturing within the chamber, likely discussing or responding to events as they unfolded. Another emotionally-charged moment is captured with outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz reacting to Merz's failed bid for the Chancellorship, underscoring the shifting political landscape in Germany.
Several family members of Friedrich Merz are also featured in the collection, adding a personal touch to the otherwise political narrative. His wife, Charlotte Merz, alongside their daughters Carola Clüsener and Constanze Merz, are seen during the voting process, reflecting the support system behind a political figure in a moment of potential triumph — now turned into personal disappointment.
The photos also document the procedural aspects of the election. In one image, Merz is shown casting his vote, a symbolic act amidst the swirling emotions of the day. These snapshots serve as a record not only of Merz’s candidacy but also of the broader implications for the CDU and German politics as the country looks ahead to the repercussions of this election outcome.
Overall, these images collectively narrate a significant chapter in German political history, portraying the highs and lows of political aspirations and the human element behind the public personas. Each photograph encapsulates a moment in time, making the viewer feel the weight of this political event that transpired within the walls of the Bundestag in Berlin.
