CDU Constituency Welcomes Spahn's Resignation Amid Surrogacy Controversy

The CDU in Steinfurt, Jens Spahn's constituency, has welcomed his resignation as the leader of the Union parliamentary group, with local party chairman André Schwietert describing Spahn's conduct as "politically maximally unfortunate" and his withdrawal as "absolutely necessary."

“

politically maximal unfortunate, and Jens's withdrawal was absolutely necessary here.

Schwietert emphasized the importance of credibility for politicians, stating that Spahn's actions were not conducive to maintaining that trust. He noted that internal party discussions had been "at times very controversial" in the preceding days. Spahn has represented the Steinfurt I – Borken I constituency in the Bundestag since 2002.

“

The credibility of the politicians involved is crucial for the future of democracy, which is always defended at the grassroots level in the municipalities and city associations.

The controversy stems from Spahn and his husband becoming parents through a surrogate mother in the United States, a procedure illegal in Germany. Spahn himself, along with the CDU, had previously advocated for maintaining this ban. His circumvention of the prohibition has drawn widespread criticism across party lines, with calls for his resignation originating from the opposition and later from within his own party. Reports suggest Chancellor Friedrich Merz also urged him to step down.

“

Jens Spahn's actions, as much as I can understand them for personal reasons, are not conducive to this credibility here.

Despite the political fallout, Schwietert expressed personal happiness for Spahn and his husband regarding their new child, stating, "For me as a Christian Democrat, the family, in whatever constellation, comes first." Following Spahn's resignation, CSU state group leader Alexander Hoffmann will temporarily manage his responsibilities. The federal executive board and state party leaders are expected to decide on Spahn's successor in the coming days.

“

For me as a Christian Democrat, the family, in whatever constellation, comes first.