Friedrich Merz, the Union's chancellor candidate, has expressed a change of heart regarding a controversial vote from 1997 on marital rape legislation.

Merz, who initially voted against a bill to criminalize marital rape, now states he would vote differently today.

He clarified that his original vote was not against criminalizing marital rape but in favor of a clause allowing victims to prevent prosecution.

Merz acknowledged that others who supported the bill were right in hindsight.

Additionally, Merz reiterated his commitment to the debt brake, though he is open to discussing reforms at the state level.

He is also preparing for the upcoming Bundestag election, seeking candidacy for the Hochsauerland region.