Friedrich Merz in the ARD program “Caren Miosga” (archive photo): In the program on Sunday, the Chancellor talks about discontent in the Union with the coalition partner SPD. Image: imago
The Chancellor speaks about the bad mood in the federal government. He rejects speculation about a search for another majority.
May 3, 2026, 9:51 p.mMay 3, 2026, 10:00 p.m
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on his coalition partner SPD to treat things fairly. “There is increasing resentment in the CDU – including in the CSU – about compromises that we are making with each other,” said the CDU politician, according to an advance announcement, on the ARD program “Caren Miosga” on Sunday.
As re-elected party leader, he was given “a lot of room for maneuver” by his party, said Merz. “But I have no authority to kill the CDU.” His party didn’t allow him to do that and he doesn’t plan to do that either. “The Union must be included in this coalition, and we must also achieve things that bear our signature,” emphasized the Chancellor. This may not have worked well enough yet.
Union complains about excessive concessions to the SPD
The background is critical statements from the Union parliamentary group about excessive concessions to the SPD. Merz emphasized that he wanted to continue governing with the Social Democrats. He agreed with the two SPD chairmen that there must be further reforms. «I’m not looking for another majority. “But that shouldn’t lead the SPD to think that they can do whatever they want with us,” said Merz. “This is still a coalition with a larger partner and a smaller partner,” he warned at the same time. Compromises are needed in the coalition. “And I have confidence that we can still do that.”
The Chancellor rejected speculation in the media that he might seek a minority government and possible toleration by the AfD. “Forget the hope that there is something with a minority government and tolerance from the AfD. That’s out of the question for me.”
Sources used:
- Reuters news agency