Overview
- Jens Spahn told ZDF’s Berlin direkt that he remains parliamentary group leader and called speculation about his ouster nonsense.
- Der Spiegel had reported that Chancellor Friedrich Merz was considering broader personnel changes and was dissatisfied with Spahn.
- Merz publicly described his cooperation with Spahn as good and trustful, underscoring continuity in the faction’s leadership.
- Spahn acknowledged early coordination shortcomings in the coalition and said processes and communication are being improved.
- Beyond media speculation, the only confirmed staffing change is Merz’s replacement of his office chief, appointing Philipp Birkenmaier to succeed Jacob Schrot.