Following Jens Spahn's resignation, the new CDU leader Friedrich Merz has seized the opportunity to reshape his team. This selection is solely his: Merz did not have to consult anyone except the people he himself chooses to be among the top personnel in his team. The decision for these four individuals is based on their prior experience and commitment to the party. Merz is relying on trusted associates to support him in the upcoming legislative term to get the CDU back on track and tackle future challenges.