Berlin – Despite simmering tensions surrounding the Social Democratic Party’s (SPD) proposed tax reforms, the German government insists the coalition remains stable, according to government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius. Addressing reporters on Wednesday, Kornelius characterized the current state of the relationship between the ruling parties – the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and SPD – as “very good” downplaying the recent disagreements as a routine element of the legislative process.
The SPD’s recent unveiling of reforms to inheritance tax has triggered considerable unease within the CDU/CSU bloc, sparking concerns about the health of the coalition. Proposals for adjustments have been met with sharp criticism, particularly from representatives of family-owned businesses. Christian von Stetten, head of the Parliamentary Group for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (PKM), publicly condemned the SPD’s plans, branding them a “frontal attack” on German family businesses and suggesting they represent a potential end to the previously touted coalition peace.
Kornelius, attempting to diffuse the escalating rhetoric, stressed that the SPD’s proposals should be viewed within the ordinary framework of parliamentary debate. “These proposals stand on their own” he stated, declining to offer immediate government commentary. He argued that the ongoing discussion represents a “normal process” of differing viewpoints being integrated into policymaking.
However, the spokesperson’s attempt at reassurance has done little to silence critics who argue that the SPD’s tax agenda directly contradicts earlier coalition agreements and threatens the delicate balance between economic growth and social welfare. The controversy highlights a persistent ideological divide within the governing alliance, raising questions about the long-term viability of the partnership and the potential for further policy clashes. While Kornelius urged a perspective that frames these debates as a “balancing of interests” rather than confrontations, the stark reaction from within the CDU suggests a more fundamental disagreement that could prove difficult to reconcile. The coming weeks will likely see intensified negotiations as both parties attempt to navigate this latest challenge to their fragile coalition.