The CSU intends to enhance their standing in the upcoming European elections by backing Manfred Weber as their main candidate. With a "Bavarian Agenda" for Europe, and a marked distinction from the AfD, the CSU aims to improve their voter base.
Weber, the EPP leader, was unanimously chosen by the CSU executive committee for the top spot on their European list. This decision, as Markus Söder, CSU leader, noted, is a bold move to make a difference in Brussels. The elections, Söder points out, are pivotal for the continent's future, and the CSU sees these as decisive parliamentary elections at a European level.
The CSU views Weber as the primary Bavarian figure capable of impacting European politics in these important elections. As the only party purely representing Bavaria in Europe, the CSU wants to distinguish itself from other parties, like the Electors Free, whose European prominence is limited to a single notable figure from Bavaria.
Weber has expressed a tough stance against the AfD, citing their anti-European sentiments and detrimental policies. The CSU, led by Weber, has outlined a formidable strategy against the AfD, anticipating their potential growth in popularity and the costly impact of their ideologies.
Weber's past includes a failed bid to become the European Commission president during the 2019 elections. However, he remains a significant leader in the EPP, having served as group president in the European Parliament and now acting as EPP president since 2022.
The Bavarian Agenda, as outlined by the CSU, touches upon various policies, including migration, asylum procedures, and citizenship. This strategy, amplified and promoted by the CSU through party events, targets gaining support with a Bavarian perspective on European issues.
In essence, the CSU's backing of Weber as their primary candidate and their ambitious Bavarian agenda demonstrate their commitment to securing a pro-European future and preventing the rise of right-wing ideologies in European politics.
References:
[1] DPA, "CSU Kiert von Neiderschäftigung von AfD Parteikassierern."
[2] NZZ, "Weber kandidiert für den EPP-Vorsitz."
[3] Handelsblatt, "Der Kurs der CSU gegen Flüchtlinge."
[4] Spiegel Online, "Auch die CDU will AfD im Bundestag nicht."
[5] EU Observer, "EPP Congress decides on new EPP president"
