Wiebke Esdar, the Deputy Chairwoman of the SPD parliamentary group, has strongly criticized a financial concept proposed by Union politicians Florian Dorn (CSU) and Yannick Bury (CDU). Speaking to the TV channel “Welt” on Thursday, Esdar argued that the proposal lacks credibility, specifically questioning where the necessary resources for co-financing would come from in a way that is socially equitable.
According to Esdar, the plan presents significant flaws. She pointed out that the concept contains a major shortcoming: an unaccounted-for cost of 30 billion euros, for which the proponents have failed to provide a serious explanation for funding. She emphasized that this leaves a considerable amount of work ahead to make the plan viable. Furthermore, she criticized the vague nature of the funding mechanisms outlined, stating that simply being vague about financing will not work in reality. She concluded that the paper, frankly, resembles a deceptive package.
In addition to these structural concerns, Esdar challenged the proposed abolition of the Solidarity Surcharge. She countered that for the entire tax structure to be socially responsible and adequately funded, simply removing this surcharge is inappropriate. Given that it is currently paid primarily by the top 10 percent of earners, she argued that the wealthiest must bear a greater burden if the goal is genuinely to relieve the financial strain on small and middle-income earners.
Finally, Esdar insisted that the tax reform must look beyond just raising the “rich tax”. She stated that the contribution of high-income individuals, including members of Parliament, must increase as part of the comprehensive reforms. She made it clear that, in the end, the resulting tax structure must ensure that particularly high incomes contribute more significantly.