Federal politics: Merz rejects criticism of the Union's handling of Bas - "only discussed on factual issues"

Bärbel Bas resigns as Labor Minister and SPD leader. She justified the step in a public statement with the death of her stepdaughter and with public attacks on herself, including from the ranks of her coalition partner, the Union.

Lars Klingbeil, SPD party leader and finance minister, speaks at a press conference about the resignation of his co-boss and former labor minister. He says: "I want to tell you openly that today is not an easy day for me. I am very sad about this step."

Klingbeil justifies his decision to propose Alexander Schweitzer for the position of Labor Minister by saying that he already has experience on the Berlin stage. He announces that the SPD wants to elect a new leader at a federal party conference at the end of the year.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz respects the resignation. He emphasizes that the coalition's work must continue and that Germany needs stability. Merz also announces that he wants to reduce the electricity tax as soon as higher growth expectations create the necessary leeway in the budget.

Manuela Schwesig criticized the Union's attacks on Bas as “inhumane”. Other SPD representatives such as Steffen Krach and Sebastian Roloff also expressed dismay at the tone within the coalition. Johann Wadephul (CDU) praised Bas' work, but emphasized that the resignation would have no impact on the stability of the coalition.