The abrupt cancellation of the Federal Constitutional Court judge election within the Bundestag has prompted concern and raised questions surrounding the stability of the governing coalition. Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) expressed dismay at the situation, stating that the established process had been “unduly damaged” impacting both a highly qualified candidate and a respected academic. She characterized the event as “unprecedented, irresponsible and producing many losers.
Hubig emphasized the significance of the Federal Constitutional Court judgeships as among the highest offices in the nation. She underscored the existence of a well-established and proven procedure for appointments, adding that deliberately undermining positions and individuals risks jeopardizing the integrity of the democratic community.
Former Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) referred to the failed election as a “warning shot” for the coalition. He suggested the partnership between the Union and SPD parties found itself in a “dangerous situation” cautioning that such a scenario is not sustainable. Lauterbach warned against reverting to patterns reminiscent of previous governing alliances and stressed the need for mutual reliance within the coalition.
According to Lauterbach, the Union’s withdrawal of support for Verfassungsrichterkandidatin Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf, despite previously committing to support her and other candidates, triggered the coalition’s decision to cancel all three planned votes during the plenary session. The initial proposals for judges had already secured the required two-thirds majority within the Federal Constitutional Court Judges’ Election Committee. Lauterbach concluded that the Union leadership needs to demonstrate strength and reaffirm the coalition’s ability to rely on its partners. The narrow majority held by the coalition underscores the potential consequences of such disruptions.
