The Social Democratic Party (SPD) in Germany is embroiled in a debate over its candidate for the upcoming chancellorship. Growing dissatisfaction with Chancellor Olaf Scholz's leadership has led some Bundestag members and local SPD associations to demand Defense Minister Boris Pistorius as the new candidate. Pistorius is currently the most popular politician in Germany, in stark contrast to Scholz, whose approval ratings have plummeted.
The conservative Seeheim Circle within the SPD, including MPs Joe Weingarten and Schreider, have been vocal critics of Scholz, advocating for a swift decision before the so-called 'election victory conference' on November 30. Despite Pistorius repeatedly dismissing any ambitions for the chancellorship, voices within the party, including former SPD leader Franz Müntefering, are calling for an open debate on the candidate selection.
Party leadership, represented by co-chair Lars Klingbeil and Prime Minister of Brandenburg Dietmar Woidke, continues to support Scholz, emphasizing the importance of focusing on policy differences with the CDU's Friedrich Merz rather than internal disputes. However, with SPD polling around 16% and the CDU at 33%, the pressure for a change in candidacy is mounting.
A recent survey indicated that 59% of SPD supporters favor Pistorius over Scholz, reflecting the growing sentiment within the party. As Scholz returns from international commitments, the SPD faces the challenge of either reinforcing its current leadership or embracing a new direction with Pistorius, whose popularity might offer a more competitive edge against the CDU and other parties. The decision is expected to be made soon, ahead of the key party conference set for January.
