Bundestag Vice-President Bodo Ramelow (The Left party) has announced his intention to cast his vote for Günter Spinner, the candidate endorsed by the Union (CDU/CSU) for a position on the Federal Constitutional Court. This move signals a shift in the dynamics of the election process for the influential judicial body.
Ramelow confirmed to “Der Spiegel” that he will vote for all three candidates, including the CDU candidate. He stated that he has meticulously reviewed the backgrounds of each nominee and concluded that, like the two women nominated by the SPD, Spinner is a person of integrity and beyond reproach.
However, Ramelow expressed concern over the Union’s continued refusal to engage in formal discussions with The Left regarding the selection of Constitutional Court judges. He described this stance as “extremely dangerous” arguing that democratic parties should collaborate to prevent damage to the reputation of the Federal Constitutional Court.
Ramelow also criticized the public questioning of the SPD’s nominee, Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf, by members of the Union. He emphasized that such public challenges undermine the integrity of the court, a vital institution in Germany. Brosius-Gersdorf, he asserted, is not only a “profound legal expert” but also possesses the comprehensive expertise required for service on the highest court.
The election of candidates for the Federal Constitutional Court requires a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag. This necessitates the support of parties beyond the ruling coalition, placing the Union reliant on the backing of The Left. However, the Union has recently declined to re-engage in talks with the party. This reluctance stands in contrast to earlier signals from The Left, including a rejection by party leader Jan van Aken, who had previously ruled out supporting the Union-backed candidate without prior consultation.
