Thuringian Interior Minister Georg Maier announced his resignation from the chairmanship of the state SPD, stating that he wished to reduce the multiple pressures stemming from his roles in the party, the government, and his family. He suggested Social Minister Katharina Schenk as his successor.
Maier clarified that his departure from the party leadership was not a retirement from politics, emphasizing his strong desire to remain in his ministerial post within Thuringia. He expressed confidence that the state government will continue its operations until the scheduled state election in 2029.
Looking toward the federal level, Maier voiced his criticism of the national SPD, stressing that the party needs both a positive narrative for the future and fundamental structural changes. He noted that the grassroots connections within the committees appeared insufficient, asking where the apprentices and workers were situated in the district and state executive boards. He argued that the SPD had lost touch with parts of its former voter base and urged the federal coalition to intensify its reform efforts. According to the minister, the reform package must finally be implemented with the necessary adjustments, an appeal that also applied to the Federal Ministry of Labour, which is run by the SPD. He conceded that potential personnel issues within the party might arise later.
Separately, Maier expressed optimism regarding the potential ban proceedings against the AfD. “I believe that this motion will be introduced-and likely through the Bundesrat,” he stated, noting that the majority opinion in that body is currently shifting.
