CDU Candidate Friedrich Merz Expresses Confidence Ahead of German Elections
Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor candidate for the center-right Union parties (CDU/CSU), exuded confidence in his party’s chances in the upcoming Bundestag elections.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Oberhausen, North Rhine-Westphalia, on Friday evening, Merz declared, "In less than 48 hours, the chapter on the Ampel coalition will be definitively closed." The Ampel coalition refers to the current governing alliance led by the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens, and Free Democrats (FDP).
Merz presented his vision for Germany’s future under a Union-led government, emphasizing the need for stronger leadership in the European Union (EU) and a more robust economy. He pledged to appoint someone "more than a representative for heat pumps" to head the economics ministry, a veiled criticism of the current minister, Robert Habeck from the Greens.
Regarding migration, Merz asserted that Germany should remain open to skilled workers but condemned irregular migration, which he deemed excessive over the past decade. He vowed to marginalize the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), describing it as a "fringe phenomenon" in politics.
Merz acknowledged the magnitude of the challenges ahead but expressed determination to resolve as many of Germany’s pressing issues as possible in the next four years. He emphasized the importance of preventing populists from gaining traction and ensuring a secure and prosperous future for Germany.
North Rhine-Westphalia’s State Premier Hendrik Wüst, also from the CDU, echoed Merz’s appeal for policy changes, particularly in the areas of security, economic growth, and Germany’s role in Europe. He highlighted the need to end irregular migration and prioritize child protection over data protection.
Merz’s confidence reflects the recent rise in support for the Union parties in opinion polls. However, the outcome of the elections remains uncertain, with the SPD and Greens performing strongly. The elections will be held on September 24, and the results will determine the composition of the next German government.
Merz’s campaign has focused on traditional conservative values such as law and order, economic stability, and strong national defense. He has also pledged to reduce taxes, cut bureaucracy, and promote innovation. His opponents have criticized his policies as outdated and lacking in vision for Germany’s future.
The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for Germany’s domestic and foreign policies. A Union-led government is likely to pursue closer cooperation with the EU, emphasize fiscal discipline, and take a more cautious approach to migration. A continuation of the Ampel coalition would signal a shift towards more progressive policies, including greater investment in climate protection and social justice.
The elections will also be closely watched internationally, as Germany is the largest economy in Europe and plays a key role in shaping EU policies. A change in government could potentially lead to adjustments in Germany’s foreign policy and its stance on issues such as Russia, China, and the European debt crisis.
