SPD Chief Gears Up for Tight Race, Citing Undecided Voters
With two days remaining before the pivotal German federal election, Social Democratic Party (SPD) leader Lars Klingbeil has galvanized his party for the final push.
Undecided Voters Hold the Key
Klingbeil addressed an SPD event in Osnabrück, emphasizing the significant number of undecided voters who could shape the outcome of the election. "Twenty-seven percent of voters have yet to decide whom they will support on Sunday," he stated. "This will be a very close race."
Neck-and-Neck Race in the Polls
Recent polls indicate a tight contest between the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the SPD. According to the latest trend barometer from RTL and ntv, the CDU/CSU has dropped one percentage point to 29%, while the SPD has also lost one point, now standing at 15%.
Klingbeil Emphasizes Scholz’s Experience
Klingbeil acknowledged the poll numbers but maintained his confidence in the SPD candidate, Olaf Scholz. He lauded Scholz’s extensive international experience and composure, attributes that he believes are crucial for Germany’s next leader.
In contrast, he criticized CDU challenger Friedrich Merz for his lack of experience in leading a major authority. Klingbeil highlighted Merz’s shifting stances on the issue of supplying the Taurus weapon system to Ukraine. "You cannot conduct international policy in this way," Klingbeil asserted. "Olaf Scholz is the right person for the Chancellery, and we will fight for him until 6 pm on Sunday."
Economy and Job Security Take Center Stage
According to Klingbeil, the top priority for the next government should be the economy and jobs, particularly safeguarding the competitiveness of German industry. He drew parallels to the trade disputes initiated by former US President Donald Trump.
"We will not cede jobs to China, India, or the US. We will fight for every industrial job," he declared.
Tax Relief for Essential Workers
Klingbeil called for significant tax relief for essential workers, such as cashiers, nurses, and police officers. The SPD, he said, is advocating for tax cuts that would benefit 95% of the population. "People who get up in the morning and drive our country forward must be able to say that the SPD is their party," he emphasized.
A Balanced Approach to Climate Policy
On climate policy, Klingbeil stressed the importance of considering the social component from the outset. He criticized the government’s recent Heating Act for initially overlooking this aspect. Additionally, he warned against using a confrontational approach, saying, "We cannot tell people that their way of life is wrong. That will only lead to resistance and hinder the necessary changes."
