Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) announced Bilger’s appointment after Schnieder requested his dismissal amid ongoing political tensions. Schnieder cited the need for a decisive leadership change to address pressing issues within the Ministry, particularly concerning the Deutsche Bahn. Environmental organization Greenpeace has called for a fundamental shift in transport policy, urging the new minister to prioritize climate action and infrastructure resilience. The cabinet reshuffle also includes new appointments for the leadership of the CDU parliamentary group and the Chancellery.