Ricarda Lang, former leader of the Greens, has voiced criticism of Bundestag President Julia Klöckner (CDU), characterizing her as a “polarization entrepreneur.
In a recent podcast interview with “Stern” Lang argued that Klöckner focuses on generating outrage and symbolic debates rather than addressing the tangible concerns of many citizens. She suggested this approach is divisive, not only within the democratic spectrum but also within society at large.
Lang emphasized that the role of a Bundestag President is to represent democracy as a whole and to stand above partisan disputes. She contrasted Klöckner’s style with that of her predecessors, Wolfgang Schäuble and Norbert Lammert, both of whom held conservative viewpoints but managed to present their positions in a manner that promoted societal progress.
Concerning the prevalent argument that left-leaning policies contributed to the rise of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), Lang dismissed it as overly simplistic. She highlighted the responsibility of conservatives who, particularly on migration issues, aligned themselves with the AfD. Lang noted that the AfD doubled in size during the period when her party was part of the government and urged a more nuanced assessment of the factors driving the party’s growth.
Reflecting on her own departure from leadership, Lang described it as a liberation although acknowledging the pain of lost influence. She expressed frustration at the current government’s policies, specifically citing concerns about proposals to pay climate protection penalties from climate funds, attempts to curtail the expansion of renewable energy and restrictions on family reunification. She indicated a desire to actively participate in decision-making processes rather than observing from the sidelines.