Former cabinet chief Peter Altmaier, representing the CDU, warned that the ruling coalition, currently led by Friedrich Merz (CDU), faces potential failure amid ongoing disagreements over necessary reforms and relief measures. Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” (Monday edition), Altmaier stated, “We do not have many shots left. Otherwise, we face the most severe economic crisis in decades, strengthen extremist fringe parties, and become incapable of governing”.
He pointed out a general lack of essential planning certainty for both businesses and consumers. While acknowledging that various opinions emerged from the discussions held at the Villa Borsig, Altmaier asserted that the public arguments and disrespectful interactions during the lead-up significantly damaged public trust and generated overwhelmingly negative reactions.
Regarding policy substance, Altmaier identified widespread pessimism and pessimism within the economy as the biggest current challenge, noting it was unprecedented. He suggested that a clear signal of revitalization is needed for craftsmen, small and medium-sized enterprises, and industry. Examples of such measures include substantial cuts to corporate and income taxes and the abolition of the remaining “Soli” tax. Furthermore, Altmaier called for the costs of the 12 billion euros in healthcare expenses for recipients of the basic income benefit to be covered by the federal budget rather than being passed on to legally insured individuals.
Concerning an alternative to a simple majority government being discussed within the CDU, Altmaier, who previously served as the Federal Minister for the Environment and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, dismissed the idea outright. He argued that a coalition government lacking the support of the SPD would not improve the situation and would likely worsen it. He explained that such a minority government would be susceptible to pressure from various sides, thus undermining the predictability and planability of political decisions. This instability, he warned, would severely erode international confidence in Germany; consequently, he believes there is no good alternative to the current coalition structure, despite its existing mistakes. However, Altmaier concluded with a warning to all involved parties: “It must also be clear to those involved that things cannot continue as they have so far, to achieve the results the country urgently needs”.