The Bundestag's morning session began with FDP suggesting postponement of CDU's migration law vote, while reports emerged of potential defectors within both parties. By noon, following intense negotiations and a suspended session, Merz insisted on proceeding with the vote despite mounting resistance.
The afternoon vote revealed the extent of internal party fractures as the law failed, falling 13 votes short of majority. The rejection marked a sharp reversal from Wednesday's successful preliminary vote with AfD support. Left-wing activists responded with demonstrations at CDU offices nationwide.
Evening coverage focused on identifying the 35 Union and FDP members who broke ranks. Merkel's earlier criticism appeared vindicated, while AfD's Weidel mocked Merz as a "tiger turned doormat." The SPD celebrated the law's failure while maintaining critical distance from both CDU and AfD positions.