Merz, speaking at a CDU campaign event in Bad Dürkheim, noted that he would propose the invitation during a phone call with Trump over the weekend. The festival, which takes place over two weekends from September 11-15 and 18-21, coincides with the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, making the initial date less favorable for a U.S. president. Merz acknowledged existing tensions with Trump, particularly regarding Germany’s military involvement in the Iran conflict, but expressed hope for Trump’s attendance.