SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch urged CSU chairman Markus Söder to work constructively on the reform agenda set by the black‑red coalition. Speaking to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” on a Friday edition, Miersch said all coalition partners should clarify what they support, adding that Söder should state his goals-not just his objections-and that a compromise will inevitably result from the talks.
Söder has previously rejected blanket tax increases. Miersch replied that the planned income‑tax reform should relieve low‑ and middle‑income households, but only if the wealthiest five percent of the population take on a greater share of tax responsibility. “We can only achieve relief if the top earners are held more accountable” he said.
Before the SPD leadership conference on Friday, Miersch expressed confidence that the party will remain united despite the challenging reforms. “I am sure the SPD will stay together at all political levels” he asserted. He added that the conference will establish clear priorities for the SPD, emphasizing solidarity on the reforms and with local authorities. Miersch noted that linking security and fairness in the reforms presents a “great opportunity” for the SPD.