+++ Bundespolitik +++: Söder warnt vor Scheitern der Rentenreform

In recent numbers released for the second half of 2024, it emerged that 9,500 people were deported, according to earlier data. In recent years, the number of deportations has been on the rise, with around 22,800 people being deported in 2025, compared to over 20,000 in the previous year, 16,400 in 2023, and just under 13,000 in 2022.

CSU leader Markus Söder believes that former Union party chairman Jens Spahn could return to a political leadership role, noting that his political path is not yet over. Söder made this statement following a special session of the Union faction. Spahn resigned after facing harsh criticism over his role in a surrogacy case in the United States.

His departure triggered a broader personnel shuffle in government and the CDU. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz revealed no further changes to the government or party personnel beyond necessary replacements. Merz stated this after a special session of the Union faction. The current government composition is right for tackling the challenges of the next two and a half years together, he added.

In his view, there are no plans to consider further personnel changes. Merz utilized the resignation of Union faction leader Jens Spahn to push for a cabinet reshuffle. Primarily, the manner of Spahn's dismissal caused significant discontent within the CDU. Merz is still looking for a new State Minister for Sports in the Chancellor's office, with the position still open.

The CDU must appoint a new Parliamentary Business Manager after the promotion of Franziska Hoppermann to General Secretary. The party needs a new Parliamentary Business Manager following Steffen Bilger's appointment as the new Minister for Transport, as Bilger is no longer in his role.