On February 8, 2020, Kemmerich resigned and served in an acting fashion until Bodo Ramelow was elected Minister President on March 4, 2020. After Kemmerich's election, no members were appointed to the Bundesrat, and he himself also decided not to represent Thuringia there. For four weeks thereafter, the Thuringian State Government consisted only of the Minister President. Kemmerich was accused of neglecting participation in government business.
