The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is facing internal pressure to reassess its political direction, with the head of the party’s social wing, Dennis Radtke, openly calling for a course correction from Chancellor Friedrich Merz. While acknowledging the CDU isn’t performing disastrously, Radtke emphasized the necessity of addressing the pervasive negative sentiment gripping the nation and adapting both thematic priorities and communication strategies accordingly.
Radtke’s critique arrives in response to a recent letter from Merz to members of the Union and SPD parliamentary groups. In the letter, Merz outlined a focus for the coalition’s efforts in 2026, prioritizing “the right political and legislative decisions to fundamentally improve our competitive conditions” as a means to revitalize the German economy. This prioritization, Radtke argues, reflects a dangerously narrow view.
The CDU politician, known for his focus on European policy, believes the current geopolitical landscape demands a more expansive agenda. Amidst a global shift towards a world order increasingly defined by power politics, Radtke maintains that the CDU – traditionally positioned as a pro-European force – should be taking a leading role.
Radtke proposes a more balanced trifecta as the CDU’s core priorities for 2026: sustainable economic growth, the future of social security systems and a robust commitment to peace and security through a strengthened Europe. This counterpoint to Merz’s primarily growth-focused approach highlights a growing division within the CDU regarding the fundamental priorities for navigating Germany’s current challenges. Critics suggest Merz’s strategy risks alienating socially conservative voters and neglecting crucial social safety nets in the pursuit of economic recovery, potentially undermining the party’s broader appeal and its commitment to a socially responsible economic model. The emerging disagreement underscores a potential struggle between a more economically-driven agenda and a broader vision of societal wellbeing within the CDU.
