A deadlock persists regarding the selection process for vacant judge positions at Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court, with the SPD parliamentary group maintaining its strong endorsement of candidate Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf and urging the CDU/CSU to accept an open discussion with her. SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch, in remarks to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, emphasized Brosius-Gersdorf’s qualifications, noting a clear recommendation from the judge election committee supported by voices within the CDU/CSU.
Miersch stated his expectation that the CDU/CSU parliamentary group and the Chancellor provide Brosius-Gersdorf with the opportunity to engage in a constructive dialogue, aiming to foster reasoned deliberation beyond the current heightened tensions, referencing similar actions undertaken by representatives of the Catholic Church.
The impasse follows earlier advice given to the SPD by Brandenburg’s Minister President Dietmar Woidke, who suggested developing an entirely new slate of candidates for the vacant positions. Currently, the SPD has nominated Brosius-Gersdorf and Katrin Kaufhold, while the CDU/CSU has nominated Günter Spinner.
The goal is to achieve a resolution prior to the joint CDU/CSU and SPD parliamentary leaders’ retreat scheduled for August 28th and 29th in Würzburg, where crucial reform decisions for the autumn are slated for preparation. Despite the current disagreement, Miersch confirmed that his working relationship with CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn remains intact, highlighting the necessity for continued close contact to secure the majorities required for upcoming reforms.
