Landtagswahl in Sachsen-Anhalt: Merz zieht Grenzen für Kooperation mit der Linken

In a recent interview with the "Mitteldeutschen Zeitung" and the "Magdeburger Volksstimme", CDU leader and Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that he does not foresee any cooperation with either the AfD or the Linke parties following the upcoming Landtagswahl in Sachsen-Anhalt. Merz highlighted the "fundamental differences" between these parties and the Union, making collaboration impossible.

In the Saxony-Anhalt state election, the AfD is currently leading, with their top candidate Ulrich Siegmund in the first place - a significant margin ahead of the CDU led by Minister-President Sven Schulze. While the AfD could potentially secure a majority in the state, this might not necessarily translate into a position as Minister-President.

However, recent polls suggest that the outcome might result in rather difficult majority situations. Merz also discussed the possibility of a CDU-led minority government in the event of changing majorities. He cited the examples of Thuringia and Saxony, where the CDU has managed to maintain government despite majority fluctuations.

However, he made it clear that the core of a collaboration lies in government participation and the development of a government program - something he does not see happening with either the AfD or the Linke. In line with a 2018 CDU federal ruling, Merz reaffirmed that "coalitions and similar forms of cooperation" with the AfD or the Linke are strictly forbidden.

While Thuringia and Saxony have opted for models based on regular majority formation with the support of the Linke, the Linke has indicated its willingness to adopt a similar model in Saxony-Anhalt. However, Linke faction leader Sören Pellmann has also suggested that the party could participate in the content of the government if there is reciprocity.

Merz criticized the AfD and Siegmund's election campaign, arguing that Siegmund "exaggerates the past, which he himself did not live through". He reminded that in 2000, the unemployment rate in Saxony-Anhalt was around 20%, whereas it is currently only 8%. When asked if he feared losing his position should the East elections turn into a disaster for the CDU, Merz responded that "no", stating that outside forces are attempting to create a rift within the Union, but the election outcome will not jeopardize federal government stability.