Lead Candidates Debated In Germany

The three lead candidates of the German election met on 30 August to debate the future of Europe’s biggest economy. Armin Laschet of the conservative CDU/CSU, Annalena Baerbock of the Greens, and the Social Democrat Olaf Scholz all aimed at convincing voters for their vision of a future Germany, Euractiv.com reports.

The debate mainly focused on domestic issues, like the future tax policy, future corona measures, child poverty, and particularly climate change.

Annalena Baerbock pledged to put an end to the “years of standstill”, and promised that vote for her will be a vote for change and for a social-ecological green transition.

Armin Laschet (CDU) portrayed his party as an anchor of stability and reliability during uncertain and difficult times. He condemned the Green plans and called them dangerous for the industry.

Olaf Scholz (SPD) emphasised the significance of putting a halt to climate change, but he also stressed the need not to leave the industry out in the cold.

According to Euractiv.com, another heated topic was the possible involvement of the Left party in a coalition with the SPD and the Greens. Scholz refused to rule out such a coalition. Laschet heavily criticised Scholz’ hesitancy to categorically exclude the Left party from any coalition talks. Baerbock on the other hand ruled out a coalition with the Left party as long as they continue to boycott an active European foreign policy.