Germany is witnessing significant political movements as Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, is poised to become the new chancellor. The coalition formation involves the SPD, led by Lars Klingbeil and Saskia Esken, and the CSU under Markus Söder. In the prospective government, the CSU is expected to handle the ministries of the Interior, Research with Technology and Space, and Agriculture. The SPD is preparing to announce candidates for seven ministerial positions soon.
Meanwhile, in Hamburg, the SPD and the Greens have agreed to continue their coalition, which has been in place since 2015. This agreement follows a recent election and involves substantial investments in infrastructure, climate protection, and public safety, including the hiring of additional police and firefighters. The Greens, with Katharina Fegebank as the Second Mayor, emphasize the importance of this alliance for their political trajectory, while SPD's Peter Tschentscher is set for a potential re-election in May.
On another front, Saskia Esken, the current SPD chairwoman, faces challenges within her party. The SPD in Baden-Württemberg has not nominated her for the federal board, preferring other candidates like Andreas Stoch, Katja Mast, and Isabel Cademartori. This reflects internal disagreements regarding her leadership, although some party members defend her contributions.
Amidst these shifts, Germany's energy future hangs in the balance with the EU's suggestion to split the country's power zones, potentially affecting prices. This situation poses a test for Merz and Söder as they navigate complex challenges in reshaping Germany's political landscape.
