Michel Friedman, a former member of the CDU, has publicly questioned the suitability of Friedrich Merz for the role of Federal Chancellor. Speaking to Der Spiegel, Friedman stated his belief that Merz “does not correspond to the job description of a Federal Chancellor,” adding that the CDU was “justifiably damaged” under his leadership.
Friedman bases his criticism on his requirements for political leadership, arguing that a Chancellor must be adept at managing administration, organizing decisions, and striking compromises. He contends that the acting Chancellor appears to lack the empathy required for this role, remarking, “I wouldn’t say he is a role model from whom I can learn much about empathy.”
Regarding his own political path, Friedman confirmed he has not regretted leaving the CDU a year and a half ago. Instead, he views the departure as having given him “inner credibility” and allowing him greater freedom. His split from the party was triggered by the joint majority achieved by the Union and the AfD on a migration policy motion in the Bundestag in January 2025. While he initially held onto hope that Merz would lose control, the establishment of a majority with AfD votes just two days later convinced him of the serious institutional damage to the CDU. He stressed that democratic parties must not risk close ties with parties that aim to dismantle democracy.
His concerns broadened significantly after the rise of the AfD to power in Saxony-Anhalt. Drawing on his family history, the writer warned sharply about the AfD, stating that the party’s goal is not simply to gain political power, but to establish “a different republic.” He asserted, “This party wants to destroy democracy. It wants a different republic. It is not grounded in the Basic Law, nor does it respect the foundational history of the Federal Republic.”
Friedman shared a deeply personal background, noting that his parents barely survived the Holocaust. Reflecting on his heritage, he said, “I come from a family that no longer exists. Fifty people are shades; I don’t even have photos of them. My parents lived, and I am their child.” Born in France, he decided to acquire German citizenship at age 18, driven by his faith in a generation that promised change and in the constitutional framework of his life.
He affirmed his commitment to remaining involved in Germany, stating that he obtained his German passport because he wished to actively influence the nation, whether passively or directly. “I won’t leave a pile of rubble to the next generation, as long as I can,” he proclaimed, emphasizing that having experienced decades of liberty, he wishes to continue campaigning for it.
However, Friedman drew a firm line regarding the AfD. He declared that if the AfD were to become part of a federal government, specifically within the executive branch, he would feel that the fundamental security of the country was lost. He clarified that his worry was not limited to his identity as a Jewish person: “I am also a journalist; I work in cultural institutions, and I cannot keep quiet. I believe I will never want to be the one who keeps quiet.”
