Discontent is growing within the CDU regarding Chancellor and party chairman Friedrich Merz, according to reports from “Spiegel” based on discussions with local politicians and party officials. These members have expressed disappointment regarding decisions made by Merz and his government.
Stephan Neher, the Mayor of Rottenburg am Neckar, described the current situation as “catastrophic.” He noted that even filling staff positions is hampered by “disasters and damaged politicians.” Neher sharply criticized the way former Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder was dismissed, stating, “How it was handled with former Transport Minister Schnieder is incompatible with a Christian party.” He concluded that the Chancellor cannot escape a rating of “inadequate.”
Elsewhere, Maurice Winter, a CDU district chairman in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis and Mayor of Leichlingen, spoke of a growing “feeling of unease.” Although, a year and a half ago, he had actively campaigned for Merz in full support, he grew irritated by the introduction of the €500 billion special fund, calling the move “unfortunate.” Winter pointed out the contrast between defending the debt brake for weeks and what followed. He views the situation as problematic, arguing that if party members in Berlin cannot explain what is happening, local citizens certainly cannot.
Klaus Voussem, the CDU Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader in North Rhine-Westphalia, called for greater transparency and respect in personnel decisions, demanding that they be clearly justified and communicated respectfully. He felt that the “appreciation” shown toward Schnieder was “not achieved in this case.” Voussem maintained that a breakthrough can only occur if everyone “pulls together”; citizens expected stability and responsibility from a party like the CDU, not constant internal conflicts and factional battles.
The criticism reached a dramatic peak from Gerhard Oertel, a former Merz supporter from Saxony-Anhalt, who derisively called Merz a “poor sausage.” Oertel also criticized Merz’s personnel policies, questioning why East Germans are being dismissed. Furthermore, he opposed the planned change to the “retirement at 63” rule. For Oertel, after 45 years working in construction or elder care, enough is enough, suggesting that a politician who supports these regulations fundamentally lacks understanding.
