Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder, representing the CSU, has forcefully stated his position on the future financial policy of the coalition government, insisting that the established debt brake must be maintained while pushing for wide-ranging tax reductions. Despite the current difficult budgetary situation, Söder emphatically rejects any softening of the debt brake rules. Instead, he calls for the conclusive abolition of the Solidarity Surcharge and significant relief measures directed at the middle class.
Speaking to “Bild am Sonntag”, Söder argued that the state should operate with the debt already accumulated, stating that “we have really made enough debt”. He voiced opposition to weakening the debt brake, particularly if such a move were intended to fund more social expenditures, such as providing a successor program to the current Citizen’s Benefit. He characterized such proposals as “unserious”.
Furthermore, Söder opposed internal coalition suggestions aimed at plugging budget shortfalls by increasing contributions from high-income earners. His vision emphasizes the need for simplification and general relief for all economic groups. A comprehensive tax reform, he argued, must include the definitive abolition of the electricity tax. Regarding income tax, his platform is clear: the focus must be on easing the burden for the middle class, not increasing financial pressure on them. Crucially, this entire reform concept must be integrated into a coherent plan that includes the medium- and long-term abolition of the Solidarity Surcharge.