Friedrich Merz suffered a rocky start as Germany’s new leader. It’s the first time since World War II that an incoming chancellor failed to get enough support in the first round of voting. The shock vote represents a huge embarrassment for Merz and raises concerns on his ability to steer government business.

Supporters of Mr. Merz, a former corporate lawyer, say he is well-prepared and thoughtful, but critics accuse him of failing to think more than one step ahead and breaking promises.

German conservative leader Friedrich Merz failed to secure enough parliamentary votes to become chancellor in a major blow.