End hostilities now

In a significant shift, the coalition partners in Baden-Württemberg, the Greens and the CDU, are aiming to set a precedent for a new, fact-oriented approach that could potentially weaken the extremes. This move is inspired by the quote "Politics begins with the observation of reality," a sentiment shared by sociologist Max Weber and social democrat Kurt Schumacher, and now echoed by local politicians in Baden-Württemberg.

The focus is shifting from serving client interests to focusing on the big picture, especially when dealing with difficult problems and differing views on education, climate, and migration policies. This change is particularly relevant in Baden-Württemberg, which is in the spotlight due to the AfD's rise and the upcoming elections in the southwest.

Julia Klöckner, the new President of the German Bundestag, has advised reviving political coexistence. Klöckner, a member of the CDU, was elected on March 25, 2025, succeeding Bärbel Bas. Her inaugural speech emphasised the importance of taking steps towards each other, a sentiment that could signal a new era of cooperation in German politics.

The Bundesrat has approved constitutional amendments regarding the debt brake and special assets, a step towards financial responsibility. However, the reliability of these promises will be tested by the willingness to save and the ability to reach consensus on spending money.

The AfD is now the strongest opposition faction in the German Bundestag. The current political situation is a result of political missteps, with Friedrich Merz's refusal to extend his hand to ease the debt brake before the election and breaking his word afterwards being a prime example.

The Democratic parties are called upon to seriously and honestly look at Germany in 2025, draw the right conclusions, and end the era of political bickering and profile-sharpening attempts with cheap means. The federal republic demonstrated optimistic solidarity among democratic parties during the global financial and economic crisis 17 years ago, and it is hoped that this spirit of unity can be rekindled.

It is important to note that the article does not provide information about Brigitte Johanna Henkel-Waidhofer. The result of the Bundestag election has been confirmed by the State Election Commissioner. As Germany moves forward, the CDU and CSU also bear a considerable share of the blame for the current political situation and will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country.