Steffen Krach, the SPD leader in Berlin and a candidate for mayor, has strongly criticized the ruling coalition government. Speaking to Spiegel, he stated that he does not believe a consensus on reform can be reached before the summer.
Krach criticized the current trajectory of policy proposals, saying, “I do not know a reform process. So far, I have only known proposals for cuts.” He highlighted that actions such as cutting housing allowances and parental benefits, increasing the cost of the Deutschlandticket, reducing care services, and halting the anticipated increase in student financial aid (BAföG) affect hundreds of thousands of people in Berlin. He firmly rejected these measures, deeming them unjust and arguing they do not constitute a legitimate reform package.
The SPD politician expressed concern that the government’s focus is solely on drawing cuts in the social and healthcare systems, which he believes will not help regain the support of ordinary citizens.
Furthermore, Krach challenged the government’s communication strategy. “There is no narrative whatsoever about where we want to take these reforms,” he claimed. He insisted that policymakers must explain to the public why changes are necessary and how these changes will improve people’s lives in the coming years. Instead, the populace is being fed news about proposed cuts to parental benefits or about ministerial announcements like the cancellation of the BAföG reform-a situation he found erroneous.
Describing the state of public opinion, Krach noted a dark atmosphere among people. “I have done many election campaigns before,” he said, “but I have never experienced so many people who are only speaking about their frustration and their fear.”
To address this sentiment, he publicly challenged the cabinet. “I invite the Chancellor and every minister to stand with me at an information stand in Berlin,” he proposed. He suggested that just ten minutes of direct interaction would allow them to gauge the mood of the streets. Krach emphasized the seriousness of his stance, stating he expected the federal government to respond to this call.
Regarding the chances of reaching a comprehensive reform agreement before the summer break, Krach remained skeptical. While he expressed hope, he was not especially optimistic. He concluded that the timing was less critical than ensuring the reforms themselves are fair. His ultimate request was clear: “Work intensively on a fair overall package, rather than ventilating a new cutting idea every single day.”
