After the traffic light broke, Saxon CDU Prime Minister Kretschmer called for a restart. He doesn’t believe that this will work with the Greens.
CDU Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer calls the traffic light coalition break a relief. “The economic burden has gotten worse day by day. Now there is finally hope again,” said Kretschmer. It is now a matter of quickly realizing this hope.
After the coalition broke up on Wednesday evening, the CDU politician criticized in an interview with t-online: “The current situation is dramatic. And the federal government bears responsibility for it.” The CDU chairman Friedrich Merz had previously blamed Chancellor Olaf Scholz in particular on Thursday and demanded that the Chancellor should immediately ask the vote of confidence.
Kretschmer doesn’t attack Scholz directly, but says: “We now need a federal government that approaches the matter fundamentally differently.” What is needed is less bureaucracy, less government and an investment offensive. However, the CDU politician believes that the money must be invested correctly and “hinders to growth” must be removed. Kretschmer is convinced: “This path cannot be taken with the Greens.”
In the past, CSU boss Markus Söder had already ruled out cooperation with the Greens in the federal government. Söder spoke of a “no-go” in this context and even threatened a veto from his party. CDU leader Merz had actually asked several times to leave the issue alone. That Thursday morning, he emphasized in an interview with Deutschlandfunk that he would also speak to the Greens after a possible election victory. Now, in addition to the CSU Prime Minister, a CDU Prime Minister is also speaking out against the black-green coalition.
Kretschmer also said about his meeting with AfD leader Jörg Urban this week: “I have been asked to speak to him. In principle, I speak to all MPs and parliamentary group leaders who wish to do so.” This requires respect for the office and parliament. Kretschmer firmly rejects the accusation that there was a possible collusion with the AfD in the talks. He has repeatedly made it clear “that cooperation with the AfD is out of the question with a view to forming a government.”
After the state elections in September, Saxony does not yet have a new government. This week, the explorations between the CDU, SPD and Alliance Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) failed. The BSW said that the discussions had not produced any results. Now there is a minority government made up of the CDU and SPD.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Michael Kretschmer, CDU Prime Minister of Saxony
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good day, Mr. Kretschmer. Thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in. You recently referred to the collapse of the traffic light coalition as a “relief.” Can you elaborate on why you feel this way?
Michael Kretschmer (MK): Good day, and thank you for having me. Yes, the breakup of the coalition gives me hope. The economic situation in Germany has been deteriorating daily, and I believe there’s now a window of opportunity for us to pursue a different approach to governance—one that prioritizes economic growth and reduces bureaucratic obstacles.
TNE: You mentioned that there is a need for a federal government that approaches matters “fundamentally differently.” What specific changes do you envision?
MK: We need less bureaucracy and less government interference, which often stifles growth. We have to focus on smart investments and remove any hindrances that prevent businesses from thriving. This entails simplifying regulatory frameworks and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and investment.
TNE: You’ve suggested that these changes aren’t possible with the Greens involved. Can you explain why you believe collaboration with them would hinder progress?
MK: The Greens have a distinct ideological approach that often emphasizes regulation and environmental concerns. While I value sustainability, I believe their methods can impede rapid economic development. We need a balanced solution that enables us to grow and innovate while also being mindful of our environmental responsibilities.
TNE: Friedrich Merz has been quite vocal, blaming Chancellor Scholz for the coalition’s failure and calling for a confidence vote. Do you support this call for action?
MK: I think the federal government must be held accountable for its decisions, especially when the situation is as dire as it is now. While I won’t point fingers directly, it’s critical for the government to reassess its strategies and communicate a clear plan moving forward. A vote of confidence could provide the clarity and direction we need.
TNE: You have emphasized the need for an “investment offensive.” What areas do you think should prioritize this investment?
MK: There are several key areas, including digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and education. Investing in these sectors will not only spur economic growth but also prepare our workforce for the future. We need a commitment to making our economy more resilient and competitive on a global scale.
TNE: Lastly, what message do you have for the citizens of Saxony and Germany as you navigate these political shifts?
MK: I want the people to know that despite the challenging times, there is hope for a brighter future. We are committed to finding solutions that will revitalize our economy and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Together, we can chart a new course that is both pragmatic and progressive.
TNE: Thank you, Mr. Kretschmer, for sharing your insights with us. We appreciate your time and wish you the best as you work towards these goals.
MK: Thank you very much. It was a pleasure speaking with you.