Friedrich Merz and Markus Söder present a united front within the Union, focusing on migration policy. Merz supports refugee assistance while aiming to curb irregular migration and address crime linked with young migrants. He calls for economic reforms inspired by Gerhard Schröder's Agenda 2010 and criticizes the current government, particularly the Green ministers, ruling out any future cooperation with them.
Merz also delineates clear boundaries for potential talks with Sahra Wagenknecht's party in regional governance discussions, emphasizing non-negotiable commitments to NATO and Western alliances. While some compromises are possible, the CDU firmly rejects Wagenknecht's foreign policy stances.
Christian Lindner of the FDP echoes the migration focus, suggesting that reforms could support the economy without burdening the middle class. Meanwhile, the SPD proposes ambitious economic plans, aiming to relieve most taxpayers and support industry.
The political atmosphere intensifies as parties like the AfD adopt restrictive migration policies while seeking a "moral turnaround." This evolving landscape signifies deepening political divides as Germany prepares for upcoming elections, with migration policy at the heart of the debate.
