A prominent voice within the Green Party is advocating for a revised approach to government support for electric mobility and inheritance policies, prioritizing rural areas and eastern Germany. Former parliamentary group leader and Bundestag Vice-President Katrin Göring-Eckardt proposes a shift in focus, arguing that solutions must be tailored to the realities faced by citizens across the country.
Göring-Eckardt’s proposal centers on directing initial funding for electric vehicle adoption toward rural communities. Recognizing that public transportation infrastructure and accessibility differ significantly from urban centers, she suggests the Green Party champion policies that support a range of electric mobility options, from cars to smaller, more accessible vehicles and even incentivizing the purchase of used electric models. This strategy, she believes, would address the specific transportation needs of rural populations while also contributing to environmental goals.
Beyond electric mobility, Göring-Eckardt is also urging a reform of inheritance tax policies. Highlighting the disparity in inheritance distribution – with only two percent of inheritances occurring in eastern Germany – she calls for the introduction of a “basic inheritance” to ensure a more equitable distribution of assets across the nation, particularly benefiting individuals in the eastern regions.
The proposals are seen as a strategic effort to reconnect with voters in rural areas and eastern Germany, following a recent decline in the party’s electoral support and public opinion polls. The aim is to demonstrate a commitment to addressing the specific needs and concerns of these communities, positioning the Green Party as a champion for their interests.