The reshuffle has sparked discontent among conservative lawmakers and contributed to a decline in Merz’s popularity, as the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party gains ground, particularly on migration issues. A crucial vote on Merz’s nomination of Thorsten Frei as faction chief is set to occur, with potential implications for Merz’s leadership amid declining poll numbers and increasing intra-party dissent. The upcoming state elections in September further heighten the stakes for Merz’s strategic decisions.