Friedrich Merz faces criticism amid low Chancellor approval ratings

Friedrich Merz, who has served as German Chancellor since May 2025, is facing criticism and low approval ratings. He was the first German Chancellor to require a second round of voting to secure the position.

Critics have characterized Merz as lacking empathy, often attributing his perceived coldness to his professional background as a manager and his tenure as chairman of the supervisory board at BlackRock Germany. His public image is marked by a communication style described as distant and logic-driven rather than emotional.