German Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate, Alexander Schweitzer of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), has expressed support for a reformed debt brake in potential initial talks with the Union about government formation.
Schweitzer, in an interview with the “Tagesspiegel”, stated, “As one of the last economies in Europe and the world, we hold on to rigid debt rules. We must free ourselves from this millstone for our economy. We must quickly change this position.” He added, “A look at other countries, which are economically more successful, shows how necessary a reform of the debt brake is.”
The CDU/CSU’s Chancellor candidate, Friedrich Merz, should “now demonstrate a sense of responsibility”, Schweitzer said, “He should orient himself on the appeal of CDU state premiers, who have long wanted to relax the debt brake. We need this for external security, our defense, our freedom and infrastructure. A big push is needed here. The Union must end its dogmatism.”
Schweitzer defended the candidacy of SPD Chairman Lars Klingbeil for the faction leadership, despite his involvement in the party’s historic election defeat. “This is a signal of the party’s ability to act. The SPD will put itself at the forefront of the faction with Lars Klingbeil”, the Mainz government chief said, “The coming weeks are crucial for Germany. Democratic parties must show they are capable of action.”
The SPD has suffered a defeat and will discuss it, Schweitzer said, “Germany needs a stable SPD. We cannot afford to lose ourselves in personal debates or hide in a smokescreen now.”
For Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Schweitzer sees an important role, “The SPD should not give up on Boris Pistorius. He is playing an important role with his competence, experience and popularity now and will do so in the future” he stated, “However, it’s not about filling positions in a future federal government now.