BERLIN, GERMANY – Following the disappointing results of the federal election, Social Democratic Party (SPD) politicians are reportedly considering former Bundestag President Bärbel Bas as a potential future party leader. According to the Tagesspiegel, there are demands for the resignation of the current party chair, Saskia Esken. Additionally, there is a growing call for a significant future role for Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the SPD.
SPD Bundestag member Adis Ahmetovic brought Bas into the conversation as a potential future party leader, stating, “The SPD has historically its worst election results. This must be candidly clarified and a generational change is needed.” Ahmetovic expressed his delight that Lars Klingbeil will take on the faction leadership and that Bas and Pistorius should take on more responsibility in the party and faction.
Another SPD Bundestag member, Axel Schäfer, told the newspaper, “If Saskia Esken were to step down as party chair, Bärbel Bas would be an excellent successor. She is down-to-earth, sympathetic and experienced. With Bärbel Bas, the SPD could make a point in Germany.”
Fuerth’s Mayor Thomas Jung (SPD) called for Esken’s resignation and advocated for Klingbeil as the sole party leader, stating, “Saskia Esken’s work was unfortunately not helpful for the SPD, so I advocate for a sole leadership with Lars Klingbeil.” Jung added, “Willy Brandt was also the sole party leader at the time and that was a very successful period for our party.” Jung also expressed his support for Pistorius to remain as Defense Minister, as he does a good and reliable job in that role.