The designated Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, Cem Özdemir (Greens), sharply criticized the federal government, arguing that it lacks a unified strategy, particularly concerning income tax reform. Speaking in the ARD-Hauptstadtstudio’s “Report from Berlin” Özdemir stressed that while Baden-Württemberg is ready to contribute to tax and pension reforms, the federal government must speak with one voice. He pointed out the incongruity of receiving proposals from Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) and the CDU, stating that this is unrepresentative of how things are managed in his state.
Ozdemir also dismissed the “Relief Premium” which failed in the Bundesrat, labeling it an unnecessary expenditure that lacks discernible added value. He asserted that the discussion should instead focus on extending the fuel rebate. Overall, he demanded that the federal government prove to the public that democracy is capable of resolving complex issues.
In his own efforts to alleviate the local economy in Baden-Württemberg, Özdemir announced plans to abolish all required reporting duties for both small and medium-sized enterprises and municipalities. He then addressed Berlin directly, suggesting that its high level of bureaucracy is a major hurdle. Özdemir advised that Berlin should model itself after Baden-Württemberg’s efforts to simplify regulations, noting that such a change would significantly benefit the German economy.
