Celebrating the Positive Side of Politics: An Ode to a Joyous Approach

In the political landscape of Germany, the ruling coalition has been described as the "worst-tempered government" in the western hemisphere. This assessment is echoed in an article by Süddeutsche Zeitung, which portrays the political mood in Germany as "hopeless."

However, the German people, known for their sober, restrained, realistic, and pessimistic nature, have not allowed their political culture to become distant or plagued by a sense of division. In fact, democratic politics in Germany is being championed by a young CDU member, Philipp Amthor, who has risen to prominence since 2017 and currently serves as Parliamentary State Secretary for Digital and State Modernization since 2025.

Amthor's approach to politics is reminiscent of American politicians such as Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, and her running mate Tim Walz, have successfully dispelled the bad atmosphere of Trump's MAGA campaign in the United States. Harris is known for her hearty laugh and stands for the return of good humor in politics.

The Harris/Walz campaign employs a fresh vocabulary that brings new color to the political debate, conveying a sense of calm, morally stable, competent cheerfulness. Their approach has been so effective that they are ahead in various polls in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin due to their ability to reach working-class people and people in rural areas.

The joy and laughter created by Harris and Walz's campaign is infectious and serves as social glue, unlike hate comments and angry speeches that divide and isolate. This shift in the US political climate, characterized by joy and enthusiasm, could be conceivable in Germany, given the significant pro-democracy demonstrations that have taken place since the beginning of the year.

In the context of the elections in the eastern part of Germany, the established parties are currently finding it difficult to generate enthusiasm for democratic politics. The political representatives in Germany could learn from the Harris/Walz campaign and show more joy and enthusiasm for their cause to open hearts among the people.

In a world where bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles dominate politics, the Harris/Walz campaign is using a targeted campaign joy to mobilize people. Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are making their political opponents look weak and faded without resorting to hatred. This approach is a breath of fresh air in the political arena and could serve as a model for positive change in Germany.

As the German political scene navigates its current challenges, the potential influence of a politician like Amthor, who embodies enthusiasm and fresh language, cannot be overlooked. The time for change is now, and the German political landscape could greatly benefit from a dose of the joy and enthusiasm that the Harris/Walz campaign brings to the political arena.