CDU Holds Federal Convention

HANOVER, GERMANY - DECEMBER 05: German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is also chairwoman of the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU), sings the national anthem with (from L to R) CDU Managing Director Klaus Schueler, CDU General Secretary Hermann Groehe and Hesse Governor Volker Bouffier at the conclusion of the CDU federal party convention on December 5, 2012 in Hanover, Germany. The CDU has a strong lead over its opponents though has recently lost the mayoral posts in several major German cities to opposition parties. Germany faces federal elections in 2013. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)