Merz Challenges Söder at Weißwurst Breakfast Over Election Setbacks
In a bid to showcase unity within the Union party, prominent figures from the CDU and CSU gathered at a Weißwurst breakfast in Brilon, North Rhine-Westphalia, where tensions and past electoral failures were brought to the forefront. Friedrich Merz, the CDU candidate for Chancellor, used the event to address the dismal performance of the party in the 2021 federal elections, hinting at the shared responsibility for the outcome.
During his address, Merz reflected on the 2021 Bundestag elections, which resulted in a historic low for the Union party, scoring only 24%. He acknowledged the loss of the chancellorship, attributing it to a failure to meet voter expectations. Although there were no direct accusations, the implication was clear: Söder, as the leader of the CSU at the time, played a part in the electoral disaster.
Merz recalled a subsequent meeting with Söder at a lake in Bavaria, where they agreed to remain united against external and internal divisions. This comment, while seemingly innocuous, raised questions about the current dynamics of their partnership, particularly as Merz finds himself in a position where he needs Söder's support more than ever. Recent polls indicate that the CSU is performing significantly better than the CDU, with the former at 42% while the latter hovers around 30%.
In response, Söder publicly reaffirmed his support for Merz, declaring his desire for him to become the next Chancellor of Germany. He emphasized the necessity for a change in policies concerning migration, the economy, and foreign affairs, positioning Merz as the candidate capable of ensuring both prosperity and democratic stability.
Throughout the event, Söder lightened the mood with humor and engaged the audience with his characteristic charm. He made light-hearted comments about traditional Bavarian cuisine and took jabs at political adversaries, particularly targeting the Green Party's economic policies.
Attendees of the breakfast were treated to a selection of local beverages, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Despite the underlying tensions, both leaders expressed a commitment to work together, highlighting their shared objectives that extend beyond their individual parties.
On the contentious topic of potential coalition partners, both leaders expressed a desire to keep the Greens out of power. Söder noted that if possible, they should be relegated to opposition. This marks a shift from prior statements that left the door open for negotiations, indicating a more consolidated stance against the current government led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Furthermore, Merz reiterated his firm stance against collaborating with the Alternative for Germany (AfD), labeling them as a party that would lead to a decline for the nation. He emphasized the need for Germany and Europe to present a united front in international relations, particularly in light of rising global tensions.
The Weißwurst breakfast concluded with applause for both leaders, demonstrating a façade of unity despite the evident underlying rivalries. As a parting gift, Söder received a basket filled with local specialties from the Sauerland region, symbolizing the blend of their political traditions.
