Ilse Aigner tipped to become Germany’s first female president in 2027

Nomination confirmed by conservatives

Chancellor Friedrich Merz nominated Ilse Aigner on Monday as the candidate for his conservative party. She will replace outgoing President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in the largely ceremonial role next year. Sources say she is expected to be formally elected on January 30 by parliament representatives. Her current position is speaker of the southern state's regional assembly.

Political context and support

Aigner belongs to the CSU, which is the Bavarian sister party of Chancellor Merz's centre-right CDU. In March of the coming year, Steinmeier will arrive at the maximum allowed for his two five-year terms. The Federal Convention comprising members of the lower house and state delegates will vote on her election. The established political groups face challenges due to the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany party.

Aigner's vision for unity

If elected, Aigner would work to overcome divisions in German society according to recent statements. She urged a healed community to serve as the central focus of her duties. Merz praised her clear commitment to the fundamental values of democracy and opposition to hatred. Her appearances in traditional dirndl dress have made her a familiar figure across Bavaria.