If Seehofer steps down, the CSU could offer a replacement of the interior minister if it aims to remain tied to Merkel's CDU party. Alternatively, it could break up the two parties' decades-long partnership, depriving Merkel of her majority in parliament, launching Germany into uncharted political waters. To survive politically, Merkel could attempt to achieve a minority government, seek a new coalition partner in the ecologist Greens or pro-business Free Democrats, or orchestrate a no-confidence vote in parliament that could trigger new elections.