As the CDU prepares for its federal congress in Stuttgart, several party politicians have voiced their backing for the party leader and Chancellor Friedrich Merz, underscoring the expectation for significant reforms. CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann emphasized Merz’s suitability for the current political climate but also recognized challenges such as the high debt levels following the Federal Election. This positions Merz at a pivotal moment where party expectations align with the need for responsive governance.

The backdrop of these demands features growing concerns within the CDU regarding internal cohesion and external threats from rival parties, notably the AfD, which is gaining ground in polls. The Forsa survey indicates the AfD's popularity reaching 37 percent in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, a scenario that amplifies the urgency for the CDU to clarify its reform agenda to retain voter confidence. As party dynamics shift, the calls for reform may also signal a deeper need for addressing structural issues within the CDU as it approaches a competitive electoral landscape.

The congress in Stuttgart is seen as a critical juncture for the CDU, potentially shaping the future course of the party and the Chancellor's leadership. With the expectation for reforms hanging in the balance, Merz faces the dual challenge of maintaining party unity while addressing the pressing economic and political concerns facing Germany. The upcoming decisions could define the CDU's strategy moving forward and determine its position in the forthcoming electoral battle against its adversaries.