CDU politician Steffen Bilger expressed concern regarding the coalition’s capacity to govern effectively. Speaking to the “Handelsblatt”, Bilger argued that the recent actions of the SPD-specifically, blocking legislative progress and assigning blame-are significantly eroding public trust in the political system. He insisted that the coalition needed to immediately return to a “constructive reform mode” and begin delivering results.
Bilger also acknowledged the sharp criticism voiced by former Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Peter Altmaier (CDU). Altmaier expressed deep apprehension, stating that it was the first time in his political life, perhaps even in the history of the Federal Republic since 1949, that he feared the country might slip into a state of crisis.
Responding to this discussion, Bilger noted that he was not alone in sharing these concerns. He said that many citizens are currently contacting politicians to appeal to their sense of responsibility, given the scale of current challenges, both domestically and internationally. Therefore, he stressed that the coalition-comprising the Union and the SPD-must work together to push through necessary reforms and advance the country. Despite the criticism, Bilger remained confident, asserting that “our democratic institutions are robust and have always proven their stability in difficult times”.