Clara von Nathusius, the Treasurer of the Young Union, has issued sharp criticism of Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU. During an interview with ARD on Sunday, von Nathusius stated that the Union is facing credibility issues, a problem she attributes partly to Merz, suggesting that he may not be suitable to run for Chancellor again.
Von Nathusius criticized the CDU, arguing that in recent years the party has focused solely on defining “who or what we are against” rather than establishing “what we stand for.” She stressed that the Union urgently needs to shift its focus to core principles. Furthermore, she labeled the “brandmauer” (firewall policy) as a “failed project.”
Looking ahead to government formation in Saxony-Anhalt, von Nathusius expressed an openness to dialogue between the CDU and the AfD. She believes that if invited to participate, it is essential to speak with all parties involved first. While noting that the standards of her political party differ between the federal and state levels, she maintained her willingness to engage across party lines in the state election context.
