Kommentar: Merz sagt, was die Wenigsten hören wollen
Nach sieben Jahren wirtschaftlichem Stillstand gibt es wenig zu verteilen. Das erklärt der Kanzler im Fernsehen den Bürgern. Es wirkt kühl und ist unbequem, könnte aber seine Stärke sein.
Friedrich Merz (CDU) demonstrated his authenticity during an RTL interview with Pinar Atalay, just a week before the crucial state election in Sachsen-Anhalt. The Chancellor prepared himself for questions from four citizens, knowing full well that it would not be a feel-good event like the meticulously orchestrated cabinet meeting at Schloss Neuhardenberg.
As expected, there was ample criticism. An obstetrician complained about cuts in the healthcare system, saying, "We know your bank balance, Mr. Merz." A parishioner brought up the town debate, a former entrepreneur wished to bring back the old Merz with his beer mug, and he vehemently opposed the fortress mentality. However, the old Friedrich Merz is no longer present.
The reason is simple: after seven years of economic stagnation, there is little left to distribute. Merz must even take away from some to keep the business afloat. This results in poor mood, which is evident in his weak personal poll numbers. But one might wonder if a more empathetic Merz would have fared better in such a round. Likely not.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Commentary: Merz says what few people want to hear handelsblatt.com
