Christian Dürr Rebranding the New FDP: "Time for a Fresh Start"
"Change is necessary for me as well"
In the upcoming party conference, the FDP is diving headfirst into their mission to regain the German Bundestag, with Christian Dürr as the likely new leader. Ready for a shake-up, Dürr shares his vision for the party's future.
ntv.de: Mr. Dürr, Germany has a new Chancellor - any regrets for Mr. Merz?
Christian Dürr: This isn't about sympathy. A stable government is key for Germany. I fear the current coalition lacks unity. Members of Parliament are starting to realize that their agreement isn't future-proof.
What have you been up to since the FDP's absence from the Bundestag since March?
I've connecting with fellow party members and people from outside our ranks, contemplating the future direction for the FDP.
What's the outcome of your deliberations?
The result is my nomination of Nicole Büttner for the role of General Secretary. She's an AI entrepreneur, a fresh face, and the perfect choice to spearhead the party's modern transformation. Times are changing, and the FDP needs to follow suit. It's about taking new, unconventional paths.
Being a former faction leader, does this sit well with your past role?
Absolutely, we need a mix of the old and the new. I, too, must adapt to changes. The party needs fresh ideas, and a startup entrepreneur as our General Secretary represents a new, bold step. Our primary goal is to work together as a team for the betterment of our country.
The FDP conference is coming up - what's the message we should expect? Will it be "We're still here" or "Don't forget us"?
No, our message should be: Count on the Free Democrats. We aim to become Germany's most modern party, with innovative solutions to propel our nation forward. People are increasingly concerned about Germany's declining sense of progress, especially with regards to economic growth, housing, and job opportunities for young families. We, the FDP, are the ones who think outside the box and are ready to tackle these challenges head-on.
...
You've barely differentiated yourself from long-term Chairman Christian Lindner thus far. Will it continue with the same approach?
No, we'll also be revamping our policy platform. While I have a deep respect for Lindner's leadership, I won't merely follow in his footsteps. The policies we championed in the past may not have resonated with enough people, giving them a sense of personal connection to our economic proposals. We need to present policies that genuinely impact the everyday lives of the people.
But isn't your focus still on lowering taxes?
Lowering taxes is not an end in itself. Our goal is to create a thriving economy where people can genuinely feel the benefits, even as social security contributions rise. The current government lacks any cohesive strategy to rectify this issue.
What about economic growth? Isn't that something both parties can agree on?
Growth is everyone's objective - I can't think of any party that's against it. However, it's about the right approach. The SPD and CDU/CSU have put forward promises that don't address the root issues, such as disguising increased electricity prices through federal budget subsidies or delaying much-needed reforms.
** ... **
What's your position on immigration policy?
We need a more dynamic approach that attracts skilled workers from every corner of the globe, making it easier for them to come and work in Germany. The traffic light coalition's skilled worker immigration law was a step in the right direction, but we can do more. Unfortunately, the SPD has shown little progress on this issue, with the Union offering no competition.
Why expand renewable energies? Isn't shutting down coal and nuclear power a mistake?
Our energy policy needs an overhaul. Shutting down nuclear power for climate protection was not always a wise decision, as it made our CO2 emission per capita higher than in France. At the same time, we must focus on smarter immigration policies that make it easier for people to come to Germany to work, not to live off of welfare.
You lauded the traffic light coalition's skilled worker immigration law as a major achievement. Isn't that a case of contradicting yourself on immigration policy?
The law is taking effect, but I see much more potential and momentum for lasting change. Unfortunately, the SPD failed to capitalize on this opportunity at the time. I don't see any progress on immigration from the Union or the SPD at present.
What's wrong with supporting the expansion of renewable energies?
The issue lies in the meticulous government control of every aspect of renewable energy. I'm not against clean energy, but the current system is far from efficient. If the proposed network expansion goes as planned, it could cost taxpayers or electricity customers at least half a trillion euros.
Would you go back to nuclear power?
We mustn't shy away from discussing new forms of nuclear energy. Small reactors and nuclear fusion could be part of our energy mix in the future, though our primary focus should be on unleashing the full potential of AI and other emerging technologies.
It seems like you're advocating for more freedom for the footloose traveler. Is that what the FDP is all about?
Freedom is at the heart of the FDP's mission, but that doesn't mean we want to staunchly defend every personal liberty. The more pressing matter is finding the best ways to combat traffic jams, for instance, by integrating AI into our transportation systems. We don't aim to control people's lives; rather, we want to create solid foundations for each individual to succeed. This is why education remains a central pillar of our party platform.
You cling to the debt brake, yet proposed $300 billion for the Bundeswehr and plan to continue using old Covid billions for the traffic light government's start-up costs. Isn't that hypocritical?
The debt brake is essential for practicing fiscal responsibility, but it isn't inflexible. It allows for 50 billion euros in new debt this year. Thus, it's foolish to abolish the debt brake, as the Greens and Schwarz-Rot want to do. However, we're not dogmatic. We recognize the urgent need for a stronger Bundeswehr to address new geopolitical challenges, which is why we proposed a defense fund.
The new debt possibilities should give the freedom to invest in the Bundeswehr and infrastructure. Yet, expenditures on defense and infrastructure are actually decreasing in the federal budget. Is this a clever political manipulation?
The transformation of Germany's infrastructure is long overdue. Unfortunately, the current government fails to deliver the necessary change, instead resorting to political window-dressing and empty promises. True reform requires bravery, and the people are ready to support us as we stand up for a better future.
If I have a medium or low income, why should I vote for the FDP?
If you're a hard-working individual who can barely make ends meet or save for the future, the FDP is here for you. Your prosperity is being eroded by a cumbersome tax system, leaving you feeling disconnected from your own progress. The FDP wants to empower you with more freedom, financial opportunities, and a genuine sense of improvement in your life.
Your political career could reach new heights should you become the party chair. But how did it all begin? What inspired you to join the FDP?
During my studies in the mid-90s, I spent a year in the United States, returning with a newfound passion for political discourse and debate. A friend introduced me to the Young Liberals, and I was captivated by the intellectual curiosity, eagerness for change, and the pursuit of individual freedom that the party represented. The FDP became my home and remained a beacon for me as I embarked on my political journey.
You're a car enthusiast, and Mr. Lindner's a classic Porsche fan. What car do you drive?
I have an old Mini from 1994 with a wooden steering wheel in my garage, while my daily driver is a newer Mini Cooper.
- The Commission, in addition to its duties, has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment, as part of the FDP's renewed emphasis on addressing general-news issues and following the party's mission of regaining governance.
- Throughout the party's absence from the Bundestag, Christian Dürr has been focusing on governable policies, connecting with fellow FDP members and individuals outside the party, striving to envision a modern transformation for the party's future.
- At the upcoming FDP conference, the message expected is not about reaffirming their presence, but rather positioning the party as the most modern in Germany, offering innovative solutions to propel the nation forward, tackling crucial issues such as economic growth, housing, and generating job opportunities for young families.
- To reinforce this new trendbarometer in politics, Christian Dürr has nominated Nicole Büttner, an AI entrepreneur, for the role of General Secretary, setting the stage for a fresh start and merging the old and new ideas within the FDP.
