The parliamentary leader of the CDU/CSU, Jens Spahn, has attributed recent challenges facing the governing coalition of the Union and SPD to a combination of factors, including the relative inexperience of many of its parliamentarians. In interviews with RTL and ntv, Spahn stated that half of the CDU/CSU representatives have never before served in a governing capacity.
He also highlighted the narrower majority currently held by the coalition compared to previous grand coalitions, alongside what he described as stronger centrifugal forces pulling political perspectives both to the right and left.
Despite these challenges, Spahn emphasized significant common ground between the CDU/CSU and SPD voter bases. He pointed to a consensus of around 70 to 80 percent on key policy areas, including the limitation of illegal migration, improved integration and skilled worker immigration, affordable housing and the fairness of the citizen’s allowance.
Spahn stated that translating this shared sentiment into tangible results remains the primary objective, with the coalition agreement serving as the guiding document. He affirmed that all commitments outlined in the agreement will be implemented, while acknowledging that further debate and negotiation are inevitable on issues falling outside its scope.
