A proposal from CDU budget expert Andreas Mattfeldt to increase taxes on high earners, potentially funding social reforms, is encountering significant internal opposition within his own party.
Christian von Stetten, chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group’s Mittelstand (SME) circle, expressed strong reservations, stating he doubted his faction would support raising income or inheritance taxes. Speaking to the Bild newspaper, von Stetten urged colleagues focused on budget consolidation to prioritize expenditure reduction, claiming the state already collects sufficient tax revenue from citizens. The Mittelstand circle represents over 160 members of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. Von Stetten dismissed the proposal as unrealistic, suggesting proponents “come down from the heat” and reconsider their approach.
Conversely, leading figures within the SPD parliamentary group have welcomed Mattfeldt’s initiative with praise. Wiebke Esdar, deputy leader of the SPD parliamentary group, described the move as a constructive signal, acknowledging the need for practical solutions within budgetary policy. She emphasized the SPD’s willingness to reform the social welfare system, but clarified this did not equate to widespread cuts in benefits.
Dirk Wiese, parliamentary managing director of the SPD, also voiced support, stating that he would warmly receive any movement from the CDU/CSU towards increasing taxes on high earners, particularly if coupled with tax relief for lower and middle income earners, as a step towards greater fairness.