Friedrich Merz, the leader of the conservatives and expected to become chancellor, failed to garner enough votes to win the nation’s highest office.

This unexpected outcome allows current German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to remain in power, despite having given what was thought to be a farewell speech. Merz’s defeat is unprecedented in Germany’s post-war history.

The result was a surprise, as Merz was widely expected to win, due to a coalition agreement involving his party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democratic Party (SPD).

After leading his party to victory in the federal election in February, Merz signed a deal that many believed would guarantee him the chancellorship. However, on Tuesday, he received 310 votes, six short of the required number, suggesting that at least 18 members of the coalition in the German Parliament did not support his bid.

To be elected chancellor, Merz needed 316 of the 630 votes in the Bundestag. The CSU/CDU and SPD coalition holds 328 seats, theoretically ensuring a majority. However, Merz received 310 votes, with 307 voting against him and nine abstaining.

Despite this setback, Merz still has an opportunity. The Bundestag has 14 days to elect a chancellor, and he could still win. However, Germany’s socialist Left Party is advocating for another election round as early as Wednesday, .

Reuters reported that Merz had planned victory trips to on Wednesday, but it is uncertain whether he will proceed with these visits following the vote’s outcome.