Kretschmer Advocates for Increased Ministerial Representation from Eastern Germany

The Minister-President of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer, has expressed strong support for the inclusion of multiple ministerial positions from Eastern Germany in a potential coalition government. Speaking to the press, he emphasized that the unique challenges faced by the eastern regions necessitate representation at the federal level.

Kretschmer, who is also a deputy chairman of the CDU, stated that the proportion of the population in the government should reflect the demographic distribution across the country. He argued that there should be several federal ministers hailing from the new federal states, which include the eastern regions of Germany. In his view, settling for fewer representatives would not be acceptable.

Highlighting the effectiveness of current representatives from the East, Kretschmer praised the work of Carsten Schneider, the Eastern Commissioner from Thuringia, and Klara Geywitz, the Minister of Construction from Potsdam. He acknowledged Schneider's performance in the Chancellor's Office and commended Geywitz's expertise, labeling her as exceptionally capable within the cabinet.

When asked about the continuation of an Eastern Commissioner in the Chancellor's Office alongside new ministers from the East, Kretschmer noted that this decision would rest with the prospective Chancellor, Friedrich Merz. He conveyed a sense of urgency for the major parties, CDU and SPD, to fulfill their commitments to the eastern states, as there are numerous qualified individuals ready to assume ministerial roles.

In a related context, Merz has previously advocated for a reduction in the size of the government apparatus, including the number of governmental commissioners, which he argued complicates problem-solving rather than facilitating it. Kretschmer echoed this sentiment, stating that having fewer representatives would reflect a more focused approach to governance, with a clear allocation of priorities.

To address the challenges of demographic decline and retain young people in Eastern Germany, Kretschmer proposed enhancements to medical infrastructure and scientific research, along with improvements to transportation networks, such as high-speed rail connections.

Regarding the rise of the AfD, which has become the second-largest faction in the Bundestag, Kretschmer emphasized the importance of addressing pressing issues, including migration and economic policies. He suggested that solutions must be developed collaboratively with the public, while avoiding actions that might elevate the AfD's profile as a victim.