In a historic first for German democracy, four candidates for Chancellor gathered for a debate, marking a significant shift from the traditional two-candidate format. This change in format was a response to the evolving political landscape, where the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has fallen to third place in voter intentions, and the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has risen to second.
The debate, held on a Sunday evening, saw the current Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, face off against Christian Democratic Union (CDU) candidate Friedrich Merz, Green Party candidate Robert Habeck, and AfD leader Alice Weidel. As expected, the economy, immigration, and the war in Ukraine dominated the discussion. The candidates presented their views on these pressing issues, with Scholz highlighting his government’s efforts to reduce refugee numbers and strengthen border controls. He emphasized that nearly a third of Germany’s population has a migration history and contributes significantly to the country.
In contrast, Merz argued that the influx of refugees continues, pointing out that Germany is one of the few countries still accepting refugees from Afghanistan. He also criticized the government’s decision to send millions of euros in aid to the Taliban without engaging in dialogue. The Green Party candidate, Habeck,countered that the Taliban is a terrorist regime, and asylum is only granted to those who worked with the German army during the war. Weidel, on the other hand, called for “safe borders” and the deportation of illegal immigrants and those who have committed crimes.
Immigration and Economy
The candidates also addressed the economic situation, with the AfD candidate advocating for a return to nuclear energy and disregarding climate change concerns. Scholz acknowledged the structural crisis, attributing it to international circumstances and Putin’s actions. The debt brake reform was another topic of discussion, with the Green Party and Scholz proposing tax increases for high-income earners, while the AfD opposes reform and instead suggests cutting foreign aid, environmental taxes, and development aid.
US Influence and Ukraine
The visit of the US Vice President to the Munich Security Conference and the proposed peace plan for Ukraine also came under discussion. Weidel defended the American position, which was expected given Elon Musk’s support for her candidacy. The other candidates expressed concern over American interference, with Merz emphasizing that Russia’s actions have led to a war against not only Ukraine but also the post-war security order. Scholz disagreed with the idea of reintroducing mandatory military service, which Defense Minister Boris Pistorius had suggested.
The debate’s format differed from previous ones, with no time limits for the candidates and no live audience. This decision was made after a controversy surrounding the composition of the audience in a previous debate. Despite this, the candidates were able to convey their final messages to potential voters without interruptions.
The outcome of the debate is significant, as a substantial portion of the population remains undecided just a week before the elections. According to the Forsa Institute, 8% of voters consider such debates crucial in deciding their vote. The surveys currently indicate a victory for the Christian Democratic coalition, but forming a coalition may be complicated due to their refusal to cooperate with the extreme right. The AfD holds second place, followed by the SPD and the Green Party. The Liberal Party, which is currently in government with Scholz, may not reach the 5% threshold required to enter the Bundestag.
