Kretschmer Calls for Changes After the Elections

Following the CDU’s historically poor showing in the state elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony’s Minister President Michael Kretschmer is calling for a change in policy. “If this election result—and, in fact, the elections that have taken place over the last two or three years—go unaddressed, then this trend will intensify,” the CDU politician told Deutschlandfunk in light of the AfD’s strong showing. He added that little can remain as it is now. “We need to discuss all issues, especially those related to policy,” Kretschmer said.

Kretschmer: Federal Government Has Failed to Generate Growth

Mainstream parties that have shaped Germany for years are “struggling to clear the five-percent threshold or even falling short of it.” Now, he said, it is important to identify cause and effect. The federal government has failed to create the conditions for growth. From the perspective of Saxony’s chief minister, this requires, above all, deregulation. As the largest EU member state, Germany must succeed in “putting a stop” to bureaucratic rules from Brussels and ensure lower prices for energy and in the construction sector through changes to climate policy. 

Call to Maintain Pension Eligibility After 45 Years of Contributions

In light of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s announcement that he intends to continue his reform agenda, Kretschmer reiterated the demand made by the eastern state premiers regarding pensions: “The pension will remain at 45 years of contributions.” A solution must be found for those who have done physically demanding work since the age of 16.