Session adjourned so parties can consult over process that had been expected to anoint CDU/CSU leader to replace outgoing Olaf Scholz * Scholz to hand over power to sound of feminist anthem Here’s a procedural explanation on what’s next, via the Bundestag’s website: To be elected, the candidate must secure the votes of an absolute majority of the Members of the Bundestag, that is half of the Members plus at least one additional vote. This is sometimes called the “chancellor majority”. If the candidate fails to secure an absolute majority in the first round of voting, a second round is held. The Bundestag then has 14 days to elect another candidate to be Chancellor. There is no limit to the number of possible ballots, although an absolute majority is always required (Article 63.3 of the Basic Law). Continue reading...