A surprising prediction by Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), has sparked attention in the German political landscape. According to her, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) is likely to succeed Chancellor and SPD’s top candidate Olaf Scholz on the day of the election. “Olaf Scholz will be history at 18:01 on election day and then Pistorius will take the reins” she told the news portal “T-Online” on Friday.
Strack-Zimmermann, who would have preferred Pistorius as the SPD’s top candidate, praised the defense minister for his high popularity and ability to make clear statements since taking office. She even hinted at having supported Pistorius in the election campaign, without actively campaigning for him, but rather by not speaking against him.
In terms of potential coalitions, Strack-Zimmermann warned against a weak government, emphasizing that “Germany must lead and set an example.” She expressed concerns that a coalition without liberal involvement could pose security policy problems and instead advocated for a Germany bundle consisting of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the SPD and the FDP. “I find this very exciting” she said.