Thuringia’s Minister-President Mario Voigt has issued a blunt call for a significant overhaul of the German government’s performance, directly challenging Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the fragile black-red coalition. In an interview with “Welt” Voigt expressed growing concern that the current level of internal conflict is actively eroding public trust and hindering the government’s ability to deliver tangible results.
Voigt emphasized that the persistent infighting within the coalition is actively damaging prospects for success, stating the need for “more common ground and less public friction” moving forward, particularly with an eye toward 2026. He pointedly criticized the tendency to overpromise and underdeliver, arguing that the government must “clearly articulate what is realistically achievable in the short term”. The recent decline in approval ratings, he acknowledged, is a direct consequence of this prolonged public dispute and a “growing impatience” from the electorate.
Looking ahead to 2026, Voigt positioned the year as a crucial opportunity for meaningful reform, focusing specifically on the contentious issue of pension reform. He reiterated his advocacy for a more flexible approach to determining retirement age, tying it more closely to the number of years contributed rather than strictly relying on age alone. Voigt argued such a change would foster greater fairness, especially benefiting skilled workers, caregivers and tradespeople who enter the workforce and contribute for an extended period.
However, Voigt also injected a note of caution regarding expectations of state support. He cautioned against a “full-coverage expectation” from the government, asserting that such demands would ultimately strain the nation’s resources. Balancing a robust social safety net for those in need with a renewed emphasis on individual responsibility, he argues, is vital for the long-term health and stability of the country. While acknowledging the necessity of a strong social state, Voigt stressed the importance of fostering a culture of personal accountability and financial prudence, particularly among younger generations seeking to secure their own futures. The intervention highlights a deepening rift within the CDU itself and raises questions about the coalition’s ability to effectively govern and address pressing societal challenges.
