Merz's New Cabinet Picks Risk Political Fallout After Spahn Resigns

Following the resignation of Union parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) is restructuring his power center with Thorsten Frei, Nina Warken, and an inexperienced health minister. Spahn stepped down after a scandal involving a child he purchased in the United States. Merz's approval ratings have been in a steep decline, and the reshuffle is seen as an attempt to consolidate loyalists around him. Frei succeeds Spahn as parliamentary group leader, while Warken is rewarded for her loyalty during a contentious coalition session before the summer recess. The appointment of a health minister with no prior experience in the field is considered particularly risky, as it may exacerbate public distrust and policy missteps. The moves come amid a cold political climate and falling poll numbers for the chancellor.