Media reports: Warken to become new head of Chancellery after Spahn's resignation

CDU politician Nina Warken is reportedly poised to take on the significant role of head of the Chancellery, according to widespread media reports. This move would see her transition from her current position as Health Minister to a key administrative post within the government. The reports suggest that Carsten Linnemann, the current CDU general secretary, is slated to succeed Warken as the Health Minister.

These potential personnel changes come in the wake of Jens Spahn's recent resignation as the leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. Spahn stepped down after facing sharp criticism, including from within his own party, for fathering a child with his husband through a surrogate in the United States. Surrogacy is prohibited in Germany, making Spahn's situation a point of contention.

Sources cited by "Bild" newspaper indicated that the decision regarding Warken's appointment has been finalized, though an official confirmation has not yet been issued. An official statement from Friedrich Merz's office indicated that the Chancellor would announce personnel decisions once all outstanding matters are resolved. Merz had previously announced that Thorsten Frei would move to the parliamentary leadership, replacing Spahn.

Warken had been a subject of discussion as Frei's successor since Tuesday evening. Reports suggest she initially hesitated to accept the position due to family reasons. The question of who will succeed Linnemann as party manager remains open.

Spahn, a 46-year-old politician from North Rhine-Westphalia, has not yet stated whether he intends to retain his seat in the Bundestag. His resignation has created a ripple effect, prompting these anticipated shifts in key political positions.