The leader of the CDU’s social wing, Dennis Radtke, is publicly urging a shift in tone and approach from party leader Friedrich Merz, particularly regarding his pronouncements on urban landscapes and migration. Radtke’s remarks, published in the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, underscore growing concerns within the CDU about Merz’s communication style and its potential impact on national unity and political discourse.
While acknowledging Merz’s efforts to actively challenge the AfD and his call for a more optimistic vision for the future, Radtke insists that a leadership position, particularly one aspiring to the chancellery, demands a greater sense of responsibility and a move away from provocative commentary. He believes Merz’s recent remarks on urban issues have, ironically, undermined this objective.
Merz, defending his previous statements on Monday, has refused to retract his comments, doubling down on his assertion that changes are needed and that government action is underway. This stance has drawn criticism for oversimplifying complex societal problems and fostering unrealistic expectations.
Radtke specifically criticized the suggestion that deportations alone would resolve issues like deteriorating urban environments. He argues that this approach ignores the root causes of problems such as drug addiction, homelessness and youth crime, issues he emphasizes cannot be “deported”. Instead, he advocates for targeted policy interventions and a more empathetic and transparent communication strategy as the most effective countermeasure against the rising influence of the AfD.
The internal CDU debate highlights a tension between a desire to confront extremist ideologies and the imperative to present a credible and unifying vision for the nation. Radtke’s intervention represents a clear signal within the party that a less confrontational and more solution-oriented approach is crucial for regaining public trust and achieving long-term political success. The question now is whether Merz will heed this internal pressure and adjust his style accordingly.