CDU discusses resignation of #Merz after series of defeats in regional elections According to Bloomberg sources, some CDU officials believe that Friedrich Merz remaining as Chancellor could continue to damage the party. Talk of resignation intensified after poor election results for the CDU in several regions. Dissatisfaction is also voiced by coalition partners. Manuela Schwesig, Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (SPD), criticized the Chancellor's reaction to the election results.