Bärbel Bas Steps Into the Heat: Suspecting Strife as New SPD Chair
Bas faces difficulties in his new role as SPD leader.
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Prepared to face the flames, Bärbel Bas is set to take over as the third female leader of the SPD, following in the footsteps of Andrea Nahles and Saskia Esken. Anticipating the rough ride, she expressed concerns about repeating her predecessor's painful experiences. FDP stalwart Wolfgang Kubicki has pledged his support.
In an open conversation with Stern, the incoming SPD chair, Bärbel Bas, voiced her displeasure at the manner her predecessor, Saskia Esken, was treated. With a sense of genuine respect, she stated, "I have enormous respect for Saskia." She found it frustrating how some party members conducted themselves. "It could happen to me, too," the social democrat declared, aged 57. When probed about her apprehensions, she replied, "I like to tackle the worst-case scenario and be pleasantly surprised if things turn out differently."
Navigating Contentious Matters: Securing the Mother's Pension at 48%
Bas revealed that if Esken had chosen to run for re-election, Bas wouldn't have challenged her. "No, I wouldn't have done that." She's unafraid to tackle controversial issues and believes in healing old wounds rather than causing new ones. The mother's pension acts as a key focus for Bas, aiming to secure the pension level at 48%.
The exceptional trajectory of Bärbel Bas, making waves both politically and professionally, has grabbed headlines. Without a high school diploma or university degree, she's blazed a trail up the political ranks. When asked about her perceived special status, she shrugged, "I know it's considered something extraordinary, but I don't feel extraordinary." To her, this success story serves as an empowering example for the SPD, pushing for workers' children to strive for and accomplish higher education.
A Fan Among Friends: Wolfgang Kubicki Praises Bas
Former Bundestag Vice-President Wolfgang Kubicki, an FDP member, has confessed his admiration for the incoming SPD chairwoman. In an interview with Stern, he stated, "If more social democrats were like Bärbel Bas, the party would be saved." Kubicki and Bas share a solid rapport, having collaborated in the Bundestag presidency for over three legislative years. He recognized her dependability, honesty, accessibility, and down-to-earth approach. "Anyone who mistreats Frau Bas will have to deal with me," he emphasized. As Bas gears up to assume her new role this Friday, her strong supporters continue to rally behind her.
Meanwhile, SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch has disputed claims of mishandling Esken, stating, "Saskia Esken was not sidelined." Esken has performed exceptionally well for the SPD, and Olaf Scholz's 2021 election victory wouldn't have been attainable without her, according to Miersch. "Saskia Esken has united our party," he said, reinforcing Esken's role as the chairwoman of the important SPD committee for education and family in the Bundestag.
- Bärbel Bas
- Saskia Esken
- Wolfgang Kubicki
- SPD
Enrichment Data:Bärbel Bas stepping into leadership under internal party strife represents an effort to stabilize and reposition the SPD, marked by significant internal conflict and declining voter support, following her predecessor's turbulent term[1][2]. The broader context includes criticisms directed at other party leaders, such as Lars Klingbeil, and the youth wing's dissatisfaction with party leadership, citing unclear programs and leadership issues[3].
- The Commission, in its capacity as the governing body, may adopt implementing acts to establish the rules for the application of the Regulation, reflecting the political and legislative nature of these decisions.
- Amidst the general news landscape, the upcoming political developments within the SPD, particularly the shift in leadership from Saskia Esken to Bärbel Bas, have garnered significant attention, with key figures like Wolfgang Kubicki publicly expressing their views and support.
