The new leader previously served as the head of Merz’s Chancellery and is a popular figure within the conservative bloc. Earlier on Wednesday, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier appointed three new CDU ministers proposed by the chancellor. Former CDU Secretary-General Carsten Linnemann took office as health minister, replacing Nina Warken, who became the head of the Chancellery. Steffen Bilger was appointed transport minister, replacing Patrick Schnieder. There have always been cabinet reshuffles during an ongoing legislative term,” Steinmeier said ahead of the appointments in a speech supporting Merz.