Leading figures within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) have voiced strong criticism following the withdrawal of Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf from consideration as a Federal Constitutional Judge. The move has prompted calls for a reassessment of the governing coalition’s collaboration with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its leadership.
Philipp Türmer, head of the SPD’s youth wing, Jusos, suggested that continued cooperation with CDU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn is untenable. He stated that a CDU faction under Spahn’s leadership, given the current circumstances, places undue strain on the coalition and requires a change in leadership. Türmer specifically called for the SPD to cease collaborative efforts with Spahn. He criticized what he described as a lack of control within the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, alleging that right-wing extremist online sources appear to wield more influence.
Ralf Stegner, a prominent figure within the SPD, characterized Brosius-Gersdorf’s withdrawal as a defeat for democratic parties and urged CDU leader Friedrich Merz to unequivocally condemn right-wing extremism. He suggested the exclusion of Saskia Ludwig, a CDU MP facing criticism, from the parliamentary group as a potential step. Stegner warned that the events could be seen as a historical moment marking a victory for the far-right, drawing parallels to the Weimar Republic. He also reiterated calls for Merz to either guarantee the coalition’s majority or replace Spahn.
SPD chair Bärbel Bas described the campaign against Brosius-Gersdorf as damaging to democracy, expressing concern that similar attacks might deter qualified individuals from serving in public office. She commended Brosius-Gersdorf’s integrity and highlighted the unprecedented nature of the attacks she endured. Bas also acknowledged the damage to trust within the coalition and called for internal reflection within the CDU/CSU to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and to rebuild trust with the SPD regarding the support of candidates.
The SPD representatives collectively emphasize the severity of the situation and the need for clear consequences to safeguard democratic processes and maintain the integrity of political discourse.
