CDU deputy general secretary Christina Stumpp resigns; Michael Hose named interim successor

Christina Stumpp is stepping down as deputy general secretary of Germany's CDU party, effective September 21, 2026, following a decision made jointly with party leader Friedrich Merz. Merz will propose Bundestag member Michael Hose as her interim successor. The announcement came days after the CDU's electoral defeat in Saxony-Anhalt, following days of speculation about Stumpp's departure. She had publicly denied earlier reports of her resignation on X, but the party confirmed the move after "personal discussions" between Merz and Stumpp. Stumpp, who held the newly created position for four years, focused on connecting party headquarters with local district associations and promoting women in local politics through her network women@cdu. Merz praised her "very good work" and integrative role within the party.