Concerns raised by the center-right Union faction regarding the candidacy of Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf for a position on the Federal Constitutional Court have been reiterated by Digital State Secretary Philipp Amthor. Speaking to RTL and ntv, Amthor cited a need for further discussion surrounding her interpretation and understanding of the concept of human dignity.
For the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), as a party rooted in Christian values, the distinction between life with and without human dignity is a fundamental conviction, a principle which resonates with many members of the Union parliamentary group. Amthor refrained from commenting on whether this concern would preclude a potential election of Ms. Brosius-Gersdorf.
The state secretary also voiced support for the position of CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who characterized the postponement of the judge election as insignificant. Amthor dismissed assertions that the postponement equates to compromising the functionality of the Federal Constitutional Court or rendering the government unable to act. He affirmed that the court continues to operate effectively and that the government maintains full operational capacity. He indicated that discussions with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) will proceed in an orderly manner. While acknowledging the unusual nature of the situation, Amthor emphasized that it does not constitute a crisis.
Finally, Amthor defended the actions of Union parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn in managing the process, asserting that his assessment of the situation was accurate. He explained that the postponement reflected a deep understanding of the prevailing sentiment within the parliamentary group.