CDU Deputy Leader: Aigner Is Suitable as Head of State, as Are Others

Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer considers Bavaria’s State Parliament President Ilse Aigner a suitable candidate for the office of Federal President, but he also believes there are other qualified individuals. “What matters is a person of integrity who can unite the country and represent it on the international stage,” said the deputy chairman of the CDU on the ARD program “Bericht aus Berlin.” “Anyone who hears this will realize that it applies to Ilse Aigner. She’s a truly wonderful person. That’s why she has so much support.” However, it’s also clear that there are other women and men in the country who are equally qualified. Kretschmer added: “Once again: Ilse Aigner is an absolutely outstanding candidate.”

The CSU is campaigning for Aigner to become the first woman to hold the nation’s highest office. Party leader Markus Söder made this clear once again at the Christian Social Union’s party convention. CDU leader Friedrich Merz did not comment on this in his speech at the CSU party convention. Only at the beginning of his speech, immediately after Söder, did he also greet Aigner by name—and was met with cheers from the delegates. 

Kretschmer Wants a Woman as Head of State

The new head of state will be elected on January 30. Incumbent Frank-Walter Steinmeier is not eligible to run again after serving two terms. To date, there has never been a woman serving as head of state in the Federal Republic.

Kretschmer said on ARD that while there is no obligation, there is a strong desire for a woman to take the position now. “And I share that desire. I think it’s really time.”

The Minister-President called for a cross-party candidate nomination from the CDU, CSU, and SPD—and, if possible, beyond those parties as well. Discussions will take place shortly. The CDU will discuss the matter in its committees for the first time on November 9, Kretschmer said.

SPD Politician Praises Aigner for Competence and Empathy

Meanwhile, Aigner is receiving support from the SPD. Bremen’s Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte said on ARD’s “Bericht aus Berlin”: “I consider Ilse Aigner a very suitable candidate.” She possesses the necessary qualifications in terms of expertise, her demeanor, and also “her fundamentally empathetic attitude.” However, the nomination is not in the hands of the SPD. It is now up to the CDU, and the Chancellor must make a decision.