A prominent CDU lawmaker has proposed a potential compromise to ongoing budgetary debates, suggesting a willingness to consider increased taxes on high earners in exchange for substantial social reforms. Andreas Mattfeldt, a member of the Bundestag and a leading figure in budgetary policy for the CDU, detailed the offer in a recent interview, indicating a shift from the party’s established position.
Mattfeldt stated he believes an increase in the “wealth tax” – a levy on high incomes – could be justifiable, provided it is coupled with the implementation of necessary and impactful social reforms. He expressed dissatisfaction with current economic and social policy proposals, emphasizing the need to modernize and secure the future of the social security system.
“I want to see progress” Mattfeldt said, “so that the majority of the country recognizes that things are moving forward”. He claims to have consulted with individuals earning over half a million euros annually, reporting a consistent willingness amongst them to accept higher taxes, conditional on genuine reform initiatives.
The proposition represents a divergence from the publicly stated positions of key CDU and CSU leaders. Both Friedrich Merz, the CDU chairman and Markus Söder, the CSU leader, have previously opposed increased financial burdens on wealthier citizens and high-income earners. This proposal signals potential internal discussion within the conservative bloc regarding fiscal policy and wealth redistribution.