Johannes Winkel, the chairman of the Junge Union (JU), which belongs to the CDU, sharply criticised the party after the CDU’s narrow defeat in the Baden‑Württemberg state election. Speaking to the Welt newspaper, he said, “We don’t need abstract pre‑ambles; we need concrete answers to the current problems”. He added that the federal party conference held in Stuttgart two weeks earlier would have been the right moment, especially for addressing welfare‑state reforms.
The February conference in Stuttgart deliberately stayed free of major controversies and debates so that the CDU could project an image of unity ahead of the upcoming state elections in Baden‑Württemberg and Rhineland‑Palatinate. Winkel criticized this approach, stating, “We did not do ourselves a favour”. He argued that “just before important elections people expect to see what a party stands for. Pulling a clear compass and opening up to debate would look better to us”.
Winkel pointed out that Germany is facing profound changes driven by demographics, artificial intelligence and the war in Europe. These shifts are so large and obvious that the party can no longer avoid taking a clear position. “The model of ‘asymmetric demobilization’ feels like it’s from the past. The 2010s are over” he said. He urged the CDU to have the confidence to develop its own distinct programme.
In coalition talks, Winkel advises the CDU to take a firm line. “There is no reason for the CDU to give up even a millimetre of its own positions, especially if the Greens suddenly distance themselves from conservative campaign positions. In that case, there will be no consideration”.