The recent decline in polling numbers has ignited significant unrest within the CDU. Dennis Radtke, head of the party's labor wing, expressed his concerns in 'Handelsblatt', highlighting the narrowing gap between the CDU and the AfD in the polls. Radtke described the situation as 'highly problematic and dangerous', calling for an honest analysis of the party's electoral performance and campaign strategy.
He urged for a clear communication of the party's actions, emphasizing the need for increased defense spending to safeguard future generations. Radtke advocated for support of Friedrich Merz, the party leader and potential chancellor, while stressing the importance of transparency regarding compromises made during coalition negotiations. He warned against giving the impression that the CDU had secured an absolute majority.
Gitta Connemann, chair of the CDU's Mittelstands- und Wirtschaftsunion, echoed the call for unity, stating that premature criticisms before concluding coalition talks do not benefit anyone, particularly the nation. The CDU is positioned for a political shift but can only prove its worth in governance.
A recent Forsa poll showed the CDU/CSU at 25% and the AfD at a close 24%. In the Saarland, the SPD has surged ahead of the CDU with 30%, while the AfD has the potential to triple its previous electoral results. With the next state election scheduled for Spring 2027, the political landscape remains dynamic, requiring the CDU to reassess its strategy and cohesion.
