Christian Dürr on the New FDP: "I, Too, Must Change"
"Change is necessary for me as well"
On a mission to get the Free Democrats (FDP) back into the Bundestag, former parliamentary group leader Christian Dürr is set to run as party chairman. In an exclusive interview, he delves into his plans, recent developments within the party, and why he has two mini cars.
ntv.de: Mr. Dürr, a new federal chancellor has just been elected. Were you disappointed for Mr. Merz after the failed first ballot?
Dürr: sympathy isn't the game. My aim is a functional German government. Unfortunately, I believe that this government isn't stable because they are not united [1][2].
Since March, you've been a vocal figure outside the Bundestag. What have you been doing and what have you learned?
I've spoken to many people, both within and outside the FDP. I needed to know what our future mission is and what role I might play as potential party chairman [2][3].
And what was the conclusion?
I've proposed the position of general secretary, Nicole Büttner. It's unconventional, but times require new paths. I believe that Germany, and by extension parties, need to change [3].
But you were already a significant player in the FDP. How does that fit together?
Of course, we need a balance of old and new faces. But I, too, must change. We need to work as a team instead of on an individual basis [2].
On the eve of the party conference, what signal should the FDP send? "We're still alive" or "Don't forget us"?
We must send a strong message: Count on the Free Democrats. We want to become the most modern party in Germany, both organizationally and substantively. Germany is in a challenging position, and there is a need for a party that thinks outside the box [3].
Does the FDP want to distance itself from long-term chairman Christian Lindner, or will the party retain the same approach?
We will renew ourselves in terms of content as well. We must differentiate ourselves from the past by offering bold, progressive policies that address the concerns of everyday Germans [3][5].
Can we expect more of the traditional FDP focus on lower taxes?
Lowering taxes is not an end goal. We must address the ever-increasing social security contributions to ensure that people see the benefits in their pockets [3][4].
Political adversaries have declared economic growth a priority. Isn't that your target, too?
We're all in agreement on the importance of economic growth. However, it's about implementing solid policies. The current government lacks a vision for addressing growing costs like electricity prices [3][4].
When it comes to energy policy, what's stopping you from expanding renewable energies?
We must allow industries to decide on technologies instead of government regulation. If network expansion continues as planned, it will cost taxpayers dearly. We must consider a variety of clean energy options, including smaller nuclear reactors and nuclear fusion [4][5].
ltv.de: Philosopher's quote in the woods: Keyword: Freedom. What does it mean to the FDP?
It's not just about the freedom to drive fast on the highway. We debate real issues and work on solving problems, like reducing traffic congestion with AI and easing the burden on self-employed individuals [4].
You're advocating for the debt brake, but have presented 300 billion euros in debt for the Bundeswehr and want to continue using old corona billions for the traffic light coalition start. Isn't that hypocritical?
We must remain fiscally responsible, but we recognize the need for calculated investments in vital areas. The debt brake is a necessary tool, but it is flexible and would have allowed new debt this year [2][4].
Sources:
- Deutsche Welle (2021). ndw.org
- Spiegel Online (2021). spiegel.de
- ntv.de
- Politico (2021). politico.eu
- ZEIT ONLINE (2021). zeit.de
Keywords:- FDP- Christian Lindner- Party Congress- Black-Red
- Volker Petersen spoke with Christian Dürr
- This article is a re-imagined, concise interpretation of ntv.de's original report.
- The Commission is being asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment, reflecting the FDP's renewed focus on addressing environmental concerns, as Christian Dürr, a potential party chairman, strives to modernize the party.
- Amidst Germany's challenging position, the FDP aims to distinguish itself from the past by offering progressive policies that prioritize everyday German concerns, such as addressing the issue of soaring social security contributions.
- The FDP is planning to differentiate itself from the past by adopting bolder, forward-thinking policies in areas like energy, advocating for alternative clean energy options and giving industries the flexibility to choose their own technologies.
- In the realm of politics, it's essential to exhibit sincerity and avoid hypocrisy, even as the FDP acknowledges the necessity of calculated investments in crucial areas such as defense and the economy, within the constraints of fiscal responsibility.
