- Midyatli calls for SPD to make a concerted effort
The SPD, according to deputy federal chairwoman Serpil Midyatli, needs a concerted effort to emerge from the poll slump ahead of next year's federal election. "We have to fight for a good election result," the opposition leader in the Schleswig-Holstein state parliament told dpa.
Considering the COVID-19 aftermath, the war in Ukraine, or energy supply, the country has weathered these crises well with Olaf Scholz as federal chancellor. However, citizens also expect calm governance. "The squabbles among coalition partners were unnecessary, to be honest. We could have done with a bit more calm."
Budget decision a success
The budget decision also demonstrated that the coalition delivers when it matters. Scholz played a significant role, and Midyatli praised the communication. "I'm actually quite satisfied now, going into summer."
The SPD faction is still in budget negotiations, Midyatli said. "We've set red lines, especially regarding the social sector, and now we need to delve into the details. Changes will certainly happen in parliament."
Midyatli expressed disappointment with the FDP's rigid stance on the debt brake. "In the end, it harms Germany." In a completely changed world, one must adapt one's stance, as the SPD did with the special fund for the Bundeswehr. Many other countries can invest more in crises than Germany. "I'm convinced that, after the federal election, the reform of the debt brake will come one way or another."
Chancellor candidate Scholz
In Midyatli's view, Scholz will not only be the federal chancellor but also the SPD's chancellor candidate for the 2025 election. His strengths include acting calmly in crises. Germany also has a strong voice on the international stage. "Olaf Scholz is listened to." This needs to be more clearly projected externally.
Midyatli also noted that some successes in Schleswig-Holstein were made possible by work in Berlin, such as the settlement of battery manufacturer Northvolt or the construction of the liquefied natural gas terminal in Brunsbüttel.
The SPD, led by deputy federal chairwoman Serpil Midyatli, is striving to recover from its poll slump before the 2023 federal election. Despite Olaf Scholz's effective leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, the war in Ukraine, and energy supply issues, some citizens expect a more placid governance from the coalition partners.
