German Green party’s chancellor candidate Robert Habeck has called for a united and strong European stance in the face of the new US administration. “I would criticize Friedrich Merz on this point” Habeck said in the ARD’s “Bericht aus Berlin”. One should not meet Trump with a gesture of subjugation.
The rejection by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) of Trump’s demands towards Europe, as expressed in a press conference, has Habeck’s support, although the two had not coordinated their stances. In contrast, CDU chancellor candidate Merz had criticized the “raised index finger” in the direction of Trump, saying it would be a mistake to do so and would “squander credit”.
Looking at internal election campaign themes, Habeck elaborated on his plans for relief measures and a reform of the social systems. Capital gains should also be used as a source of financing for the health insurance funds, he said. “We would like to increase the contribution base” Habeck stated. “Therefore, we propose that we also make these income sources socially insured. Why should work be more heavily burdened than income from capital gains?” This, according to Habeck, would be a step towards more solidarity in the system.