Bilger, who previously served as Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry from March 2018 to December 2021, expressed gratitude to Chancellor Friedrich Merz for the opportunity to return to the role. Schnieder, facing significant challenges within the ministry, has requested his dismissal, citing the need for a swift and effective leadership transition to address pressing issues, particularly concerning the Deutsche Bahn. Merz is expected to address further cabinet changes in an upcoming press conference.