Political crisis in Germany: Lanz and Repinski warn of structural problems

After the CDU's heavy election defeats, journalist Gordon Repinski (political analyst for WELT) warns of a fundamental crisis in the political system in Germany. In the ZDF program “Markus Lanz” on Tuesday evening, he contradicted the idea that a possible change at the top of the federal government could solve the problems.

Moderator Markus Lanz also warned against narrowing the debate solely to the future of Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU). The country's structural problems, from energy policy and migration to education and the welfare state, arose over many years. "And then someone is now in office and is supposed to solve this, bang, in a year and a half? That can't work in any world," said Lanz.

Repinski agreed in principle with the analysis. At the same time, he referred to the difficult situation of the popular parties. In Berlin's government district, the attitude is spreading "that people say, well, we have to somehow manage this as well as possible. And at some point in two, three or four years it will be the AfD's turn." This is a dangerous development. "It's a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you actually no longer believe that you can achieve something, then at some point the AfD or the fringe will take over as a whole."

Markus Lanz had previously questioned the criticism of Merz. The Chancellor must solve problems that have grown over the years. “It’s not just one chancellor who comes to an end, it’s an entire system that comes to an end,” said the moderator.

Repinski countered that Merz himself had raised high expectations. “I would agree with you on all points, Mr. Lanz, if Friedrich Merz himself hadn’t given the impression that he could solve all of this,” said the journalist.

The Neukölln SPD district mayor Martin Hikel also spoke of a dramatic situation for the centrist political parties. The Berlin SPD is “completely marginalized” and “absolutely marginalized.” Nevertheless, he advocated letting the black-red federal government implement its reform plans. Reforms are necessary because municipalities are coming under increasing pressure due to rising social spending.

The economist Monika Schnitzer also criticized the recent debates about fuel discounts and the so-called pension at 63. The bigger the car, the greater the consumption, said Schnitzer. Accordingly, these drivers are particularly relieved. “This is not social spending that really reaches those in need, but everyone.” With regard to pension policy, she added that early retirement without deductions costs “10.12 billion” euros per year and is exacerbating the shortage of skilled workers.

While the CDU and SPD are fighting for their political future, according to several guests on the talk show, the danger is growing that more and more voters will withdraw their trust in the established parties. "They just can't find anything. That has to change," said Repinski.