Carsten Linnemann, the General Secretary of the CDU, has urged the federal government to improve its communication strategy regarding upcoming reform projects. According to Linnemann’s remarks to the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”, if the public sees only higher co-payments for medication instead of understanding the underlying reasons for the reforms, the political effort will fail to win hearts.
He cited former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder (SPD) as an example of effective leadership, noting that Schröder was successful because he told “a story” to the people about the purpose of his actions, rather than simply insisting on austerity. Furthermore, Linnemann pointed out that Schröder successfully linked the need to tighten belts with the promise of economic recovery fueled by a larger working population, creating a compelling narrative. He also stated that current CDU leader Friedrich Merz often gives speeches of this nature, though it takes time for the message to fully resonate with the electorate.
Addressing the party’s recent shift, Linnemann justified the move to involve social partners in the reform process. He emphasized the necessity of preventing political divides from hardening, stating that the party must maintain dialogue, even with trade unions and employer associations. The coalition’s goal, he explained, is to break out of a rigid, black-and-white political framework and do everything possible to stabilize the political situation.
When discussing specific policy issues, Linnemann identified the planned income tax reform as the most challenging endeavor, primarily because the methods for offsetting the costs are highly contentious. Nevertheless, he expressed openness to a higher tax on wealth, provided safeguards were in place to prevent the middle class, artisans, and small and medium-sized businesses from being negatively affected. He suggested that a clearer system, such as one governing the taxation of corporate entities, must be developed.
In contrast, Linnemann expressed confidence regarding the forthcoming pension reform. He believes that the working minister, Bärbel Bas (SPD), will implement the recommendations of the relevant expert commission. He assured that these reforms are not about pension cuts, and that the overall level of provision will even increase through company pensions and private savings.
