Thüringen’s Minister-President Mario Voigt (CDU) has voiced strong opposition to the tax increases planned by the federal government. Speaking to the “Bild-Zeitung” (Friday edition), Voigt stated, like his fellow CDU colleague Boris Rhein in Hesse, that he opposes any tax hikes during the current economic climate. Instead, he called for a “general inventory of federal politics.” Following the historical electoral defeat of the CDU/CSU, he stressed that the party must demonstrate that it “understands” the situation and advocate for a programmatic fresh start. This new direction should prioritize issues such as the affordability of living, ensuring citizens receive more net income, and reducing energy prices.
In specific policy matters, the Thuringian Minister-President reiterated his support for suspending the CO2 pricing mechanism. While acknowledging the newly decided petrol discounts as merely a “short-term measure intended to curb prices,” Voigt cautioned against the practice of oil companies raising prices just so they can lower them later, deeming it the wrong approach. He argues that the suspension of the CO2 price “makes absolute sense” because this price cap should apply to heating costs as well as energy consumption, calling the suspension “the obvious solution.”
Voigt also strongly rejected the federal government’s proposals to abolish the retirement age of 63 and opposes the current discussions about raising the required insurance period to 46 or even 47 years. He expressed zero tolerance for making promises to individuals who have completed 45 years of contributions and then suddenly telling them, “Too bad, stay longer.” He stated that this is incompatible with fairness and justice, emphasizing that “this is a matter of justice and social security.”
Though he generally supports the reform suggestions put forth by the pensions commission, Voigt objects to the “eat or die” mentality. He insists that the political process must prioritize finding compromises, and therefore, he is expecting a proposal to be submitted quickly.
