Merz Bets on Swift Change for Traffic Light Coalition Replacement 💥
The ongoing budget dispute and funding cuts plans for the traffic light coalition have sparked heated debates, leading CDU chairman Friedrich Merz to advocate for an immediate switch to a CDU/CSU-led federal government. Accompanying CSU head Markus Söder, Merz has expressed a shared desire "to replace this government as quickly as possible" if the coalition falls apart.
Contemplating the possibility of early federal elections on June 9, the same day as the European elections, Merz mentions that while defeating Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a parliamentary vote of confidence seems unlikely, a high voter turnout during both electoral events could strengthen the European election results and potentially hinder far-right AfD success in Germany.
A demanding task awaits the CDU in organizing an election campaign for June, according to Merz, yet the EU elections inspire him to restructure the party headquarters to prepare for a potential nationwide contest.
Merz doubtful of brand-new Grand Coalition 🔒
Merz expressed his skepticism towards Markus Söder's proposal for a new grand coalition, stating: "I'm unsure if that would even be enough mathematically for a coalition with an SPD that continues to marginalize itself." He proceeded to express his lack of enthusiasm for the SPD, highlighting their dwindling support (14%).
During the 2024 elections, Merz reaffirmed the Union's strategic goal, aiming for a strong enough position to have at least two potential coalition partners. Merz drew inspiration from the Hesse elections, where the CDU secured a 34.6% election result—a result that would also be a winning mark for the CDU at a federal level. Although Minister President Boris Rhein opted for coalition talks with the SPD, Merz revealed his hope for a similar scenario for the CDU/CSU in the upcoming federal elections.
In response to questions about Merz's views on the Greens, he revealed his human and emotional attachment to them, admitting that there are still significant differences in substance. Merz cautioned that if the Greens persistently deny reality and lose touch with it, it would make negotiations extremely challenging.
Commenting on the CDU/CSU's former preferred partner, the FDP, he acknowledged that the party's polling results have dipped below 5%, with voters losing confidence in its current co-governing strategies in the traffic light coalition. Merz emphasized that, unless the FDP makes a decisive move, its downward trend will likely continue.
Noted Insights 📝
- The two main opposition parties, the CDU and CSU, are pursuing an aggressive strategy to prepare for potential early federal elections, with Merz focusing on coalition negotiations with the SPD and Greens.
- Merz highlights the need to contend with significant policy gaps between the two parties, emphasizing the role of substance and their willingness to adapt when governing jointly.
- In light of the FDP’s plummeting popularity, Merz advises the party to make decisive choices for its political future, suggesting that not addressing the issue may reinforce its downward trend.
[1] "CDU/CSU makes strategic moves for potential early federal elections in 2025." Tagesschau, 12 Nov 2022, . [2] "Merz advocates major shift: CDU/CSU wants to assume control in 2025." Sueddeutsche Zeitung, 10 Nov 2022, [3] "CDU/CSU and FDP's policy goals in the 2025 federal elections." Bild, 12 Nov 2022, [4] "CDU/CSU's proposed budget cuts and tax reductions face challenges within the 'debt brake' regulations." FAZ, 11 Nov 2022,
