Shining New Coalition Ahead? A Glimpse at the Future Government
By Mirjam Bittner
- Is a new alliance potentially being formed?
- - 3 Mins
And here we are, dear readers, at the cusp of another day. Congressional negotiations have intensified, with leaders from the Union and SPD locking horns in the Konrad-Adenauer-Haus, the CDU's Berlin headquarters, until late into Tuesday night. The talks are set to resume at 9:30 am, with the goal of reaching an agreement by noon. (My stern colleague Julius Betschka reports, "Unclear if that's feasible."*)
Navigating the treacherous waters of politics is a long haul, and current disagreements between parties aren't making things easier. To counteract the looming impact of President Donald Trump's aggressive tariffs on the global economy, potential Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to implement measures such as lower corporate taxes, less bureaucracy, and reduced energy prices.
Despite a few lingering issues, the negotiators appear to be in good spirits. Dorothee Baer, a prominent figure at the table, flashed a smile and reassured journalists: "Everything will be alright. Goodnight." Well then, let's hope for the best.
Women's representation in politics is becoming a hot topic, particularly within the SPD, as some influential figures have stepped back from potential ministerial roles. Anke Rehlinger and Manuela Schwesig of Saarland and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, respectively, remain committed to their positions[1].
For a more detailed analysis, be sure to tune in to the stern podcast "5-Minute Talk" (also available as a video here), where politics editor Miriam Hollstein and politics chief Jan Rosenkranz discuss.
Tariffs on the Rise
Beginning Wednesday, the United States will enact elevated tariffs on imports from the European Union and China, respectively[2]. EU countries face 20 percent tariffs, while China confronts 104 percent. Keep reading our live blog for updates on this developing story.
Craving a bit of humor in times of distress? Look no further! Due to the polarizing tariff policies, there has been a surge in memes, videos, and GIFs poking fun at the Trump administration and its supporters. One such example features tech billionaires who verbally supported Trump's inauguration but are now bearing the brunt of the tariffs[3].
Behind-the-scenes "White Lotus" Drama
"The White Lotus," the popular HBO series, has been causing quite a stir. In the season finale, controversy erupts off-screen between the show's creator, Mike White, and the (former) composer, Cristóbal Tapia de Veer[3]. Tapia de Veer is leaving the series and confirmed his departure in an exclusive interview with the "New York Times." White, in turn, deemed Tapia de Veer's interview a "bitch move," or in other words, a petty trick[3]. The duo's dispute is reminiscent of on-screen drama, though the outcome remains uncertain.
Other News Worth Mentioning
- Following Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest, the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) in Turkey has called for additional protests[4]. Imamoglu is under investigation for terrorism and corruption, with the opposition denouncing the proceedings as politically motivated[4].
- Coalition Negotiations
- Federal Government
- Friedrich Merz
- SPD
- CDU
- Dorothee Baer
The coalition negotiations between the Union and SPD are continuing at the CDU's Berlin headquarters, with Friedrich Merz proposing measures such as lower corporate taxes and reduced energy prices to counteract President Trump's tariffs. Dorothee Baer, a key negotiator, has reassured journalists that everything will be alright.
Women's representation in politics is a hot topic within the SPD, particularly with Anke Rehlinger and Manuela Schwesig remaining committed to their positions. The former SPD ministers of Saarland and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, respectively, are keeping their potential ministerial roles in the new government.
The ongoing negotiations between the Union and SPD are being closely followed in the media, with the "5-Minute Talk" podcast discussing the developing situation in detail.
