The rising tide of the AfD poses a significant challenge to the stability of German state governments, according to Hesse’s Minister-President Boris Rhein of the CDU. Rhein recently acknowledged that minority governments are becoming an increasingly realistic prospect, particularly within the eastern German states. Speaking on the Politico Playbook podcast, he characterized the potential scenario as “anything but a beautiful story” implying a future of precarious coalitions and constant negotiation.
Rhein’s comments reflect a growing apprehension within the CDU regarding the AfD’s unexpected surge in popularity. While attributing some responsibility to the CDU, he sharply criticized the policies of the Social Democrats (SPD) and the Green Party, questioning their long-term viability and suggesting their approaches are contributing to the electorate’s increasing dissatisfaction, pushing parties below the crucial 5% threshold needed for coalition formation. This critique highlights a growing fracture within the German political landscape, where traditional alliances are being questioned.
The Minister-President also addressed the complexities of potential coalition building. While acknowledging the potential for greater efficiency and decisiveness within a black-yellow (CDU/CSU-FDP) coalition, Rhein pointed to divergent policy positions, specifically regarding legislation concerning cannabis legalization and immigration policies, as hindering a resurgence of that partnership. He emphasized that positions on these issues have shifted within the FDP, making a collaborative government increasingly difficult.
Beyond coalition dynamics, Rhein outlined a forceful vision for bolstering Germany’s defense industry. He advocated for a targeted investment strategy, ensuring that the 3.5% of GDP allocated to defense spending actively supports domestic projects. “If we’re already making such extensive arms expenditures, it would be sheer madness not to invest this money in German value creation” he declared. This proposition, particularly relevant given the presence of major arms manufacturers like KNDS and Rheinmetall within Hesse, signals a desire for greater national control over defense production and a renewed focus on domestic economic security. The call to retain defense spending within Germany’s borders underscores a broader sentiment of prioritizing national interests amid escalating geopolitical tensions.