German conservative leader resigns over surrogacy controversy

Jens Spahn, the head of Germany's conservative CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has resigned from his position after facing intense criticism from within his own party. The controversy stems from Spahn and his husband recently becoming parents to a child born via surrogacy in the United States, a practice strictly prohibited in Germany. The decision, revealed earlier in the week, led to calls for Spahn's resignation and accusations of hypocrisy from fellow politicians. In a letter to his colleagues, Spahn stated, "In recent days, I have realized that my personal happiness, which consists of starting a family with my husband and becoming a father, is incompatible with my political office." The CDU, Spahn's party, has historically taken a firm stance against surrogacy, voting in February to maintain the existing ban. Spahn, a prominent figure on the party's right wing and former Health Minister under Angela Merkel, had previously spoken of his internal conflict regarding surrogacy before opting for the method. Party leader Friedrich Merz declined to comment publicly on Spahn's decision but indicated it would be discussed by the party's national executive committee. Chancellor Olaf Scholz also stated he saw no reason to change German legislation on surrogacy.

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In recent days, I have realized that my personal happiness, which consists of starting a family with my husband and becoming a father, is incompatible with my political office.