Updated

Eight German state premiers from the Christian Democratic Union publicly threw their support behind Chancellor Friedrich Merz ahead of two closely watched state elections this weekend. The show of unity comes amid speculation about Merz's political future within his own party. The endorsement is seen as an effort to project stability and quash internal doubts as the CDU heads into regional votes that could test the chancellor's standing. Analysts say the outcome of the elections could shape perceptions of Merz's leadership going into the remainder of his term.