How is the German chancellor elected?

In Germany’s parliamentary system, the chancellor is the head of government and is elected by a majority vote of the Bundestag (the lower house of the federal parliament) upon nomination by the president.123

Once nominated, the candidate must secure this majority to take office. This process is distinct from the election of the president, who is chosen by a specially convened assembly.13

To ensure government stability, the German constitution includes a "constructive vote of no confidence." This means the chancellor can be removed from office by the Bundestag only if an absolute majority of its members simultaneously elects a successor. This mechanism is designed to prevent the government from being unseated without a clear, viable alternative in place.1