Hesse PM Rhein positions as CDU federal critic, eyes Merz succession

Boris Rhein, Hesse's minister-president, is publicly criticizing the CDU's Brandenburg Wall policy, signaling a potential leadership challenge to Friedrich Merz. The move breaks from his previously loyal stance, suggesting intra-party maneuvering ahead of the next federal election. The outcome and intent remain uncertain, but it indicates growing factional tension within the CDU.