SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch responded calmly to the criticisms raised by CDU leader Friedrich Merz. Merz had previously criticized the SPD during the ARD program “Caren Miosga” on Sunday, demanding greater flexibility and stressing that the CDU should not tolerate the SPD getting away with everything.
In an appearance on RTL and ntv on Monday, Miersch stated that “he is under just as much pressure as we are”. While party members were anticipating a clear statement of direction, Miersch countered that the SPD had already tackled many issues and reached compromises over the past year. He cited the mandatory military service and the joint European asylum policy as examples. “Because of that, I believe we have created a foundation that is not nearly as bad as it sometimes sounds” Miersch explained. He expressed optimism that everyone understands the challenging times and that cooperation is necessary.
Miersch cautioned that while mutual consideration is vital, the partnership was not for social gatherings; “it requires serious struggle”. Acknowledging that the CDU, CSU, and SPD hold varying viewpoints-which is typical in politics and integral to substantive debate-he concluded by affirming the group’s readiness to tackle major issues, such as the healthcare reform. “We have the big topics in front of us, and we have to do this on an equal footing. We are equal partners in a coalition” Miersch asserted.