Chancellor Olaf Scholz supports President Trump’s initiative to boost oil and gas production, anticipating lower energy prices for Europe. Political discussions intensify around migration policies, with CDU leaders urging SPD and Greens to cooperate on reforms. The Greens recently approved their election program, which includes climate initiatives and minimum wage increases. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Vandals target a venue ahead of a CDU event, and Foreign Minister Baerbock criticizes the Union for delaying security measures.
Chancellor Scholz expresses approval over US President Trump’s initiative to boost oil and gas production. FDP’s parliamentary leader Dürr endorses the Union’s migration strategy while advocating for stricter measures. Stay updated on the Bundestag election campaign through our live blog.
Chancellor Scholz Supports US Energy Policy Shift
Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has welcomed a significant development in energy policy following the announcement from the newly elected US President Donald Trump. Trump’s plans to increase oil and gas production could lead to a surplus in global supply, which Scholz believes would result in reduced energy prices. In an interview with Handelsblatt, he stated, “This positive shift would greatly benefit Europe and Germany, aiding our transition towards climate neutrality projected to complete by mid-century.”
Wadephul Urges SPD and Greens to Back Migration Initiatives
Johann Wadephul (CDU), deputy chair of the Union parliamentary group, has called on the SPD and Greens to actively support proposed measures regarding migration and internal security. He stressed the urgency of addressing migration issues within the democratic framework to prevent the far-right AfD from exploiting the government’s inaction. Wadephul emphasized that both parties need to engage with the proposals substantively rather than resorting to superficial discussions about obstacles.
Merz Proposes Changes to Migration Policy
The impending election has sparked intense debates around the migration policies proposed by CDU chancellor candidate Merz. As the election date approaches, Merz is advocating for reforms aimed at tightening migration regulations and enhancing security measures. His proposals have ignited discussions that are shaping the political landscape as the election nears.
Dobrindt Criticizes SPD and Greens for Lack of Solutions
CSU regional group leader Alexander Dobrindt has called for substantial efforts to curb illegal migration. He voiced his concerns to the dpa news agency, stating, “The SPD and Greens appear indifferent to finding real solutions for illegal migration. Instead of presenting constructive proposals, they only offer criticisms of the Union.” Dobrindt warned that failing to recognize the need for significant action could further empower radical political factions.
Next week, the Union plans to propose several measures aimed at tightening migration policy in the Bundestag. Dobrindt has urged the SPD, Greens, and FDP to lend their support. However, the SPD and Greens have raised serious constitutional and European legal objections against the Union’s proposals, particularly regarding the outright rejection of all unlawful border crossings.
Greens’ Party Conference Approves Election Program
During the recent federal party conference, the Greens adopted their election program with minimal opposition and just two abstentions. The leadership’s draft remained largely intact, and the grassroots celebrated the successful inclusion of a year-round ban on fireworks sales.
The program advocates for several key initiatives, including the introduction of a climate allowance, a renewed Germany ticket priced at 49 euros, and raising the minimum wage to 15 euros. Additionally, it proposes tax relief for lower and middle-income earners.
The Greens also aim to relax the debt brake, which imposes stringent limits on new borrowing. Although a proposal for a speed limit of 120 km/h on highways was rejected, the plan to grant municipalities greater freedom to establish 30 km/h zones was embraced.
Despite these advancements, the Greens remain focused on asylum policy as a significant overarching issue.
Schützenhalle Vandalized Ahead of Merz’s Appearance
Prior to an event featuring Union chancellor candidate and CDU leader Friedrich Merz, the Schützenhalle in Menden, Sauerland, was vandalized with protest slogans. Investigations have been taken over by the state security agency, according to a police spokesperson. Messages such as “Merz aufs Maul!” and “Never again CDU!” were sprayed on the walls surrounding the venue ahead of the Mendener CDU’s planned New Year’s reception, as reported by dpa.
Baerbock Accuses Union of Delaying Security Measures
Amidst ongoing debates surrounding migration and security policy, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has accused the Union of obstructing necessary measures. At the Greens’ party conference in Berlin, she highlighted that the federal government had already passed a security package which is currently being stalled by the Union. She criticized the Union for advocating a unilateral national border closure, labeling it as unconstitutional and a violation of European law.
Baerbock also cautioned against imposing border closures and excluding migrants or individuals from migrant families, asserting that the country would face significant disruptions if these individuals ceased to contribute to the workforce.
In her remarks, Baerbock targeted Union chancellor candidates Merz and Scholz, stating, “There are two gentlemen aspiring to govern, but they seem to be losing their composure.” She expressed concern over Merz’s openness to support from the far-right AfD, insisting on the necessity of maintaining a ‘firewall’ against such influences.
Greens Conference Rejects Higher Top Tax Rates
The Greens have firmly decided against reinstating the higher top tax rates that were in place during the 1990s, when the top rate was 53 percent of taxable income. At their federal party conference in Berlin, a proposal from the grassroots for higher rates was decisively dismissed. Tax expert Katharina Beck cautioned, “We cannot pursue tax increases in the current climate.”
Additionally, a push to abolish the so-called pension at 63 did not gain traction, with former Verdi chief Frank Bsirske arguing that this would effectively amount to a “pension reduction program for all” unable to reach the standard retirement age due to their work demands.
FDP Supports Union’s Migration Proposals but Calls for More
The FDP has expressed support for the Union’s proposed tightening of migration policies. However, parliamentary leader Christian Dürr has urged for further measures. “Countries that refuse to repatriate their citizens should be denied development aid,” he stated to Funke media group newspapers.
Dürr highlighted Afghanistan as a specific case, noting that over a billion euros have been allocated to the country in the last three years. “We need agreements that stipulate no further funds will be provided if countries like Afghanistan do not accept those required to leave,” he asserted, indicating a desire to collaborate with the Union on this matter.