New CDU lead candidate Evers faces skepticism from Berlin rivals

Stefan Evers has been chosen as the new lead candidate for the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Berlin, stepping into the role previously held by Governing Mayor Kai Wegner. Wegner withdrew his candidacy following weeks of controversy surrounding his handling of a prolonged power outage in January. The CDU state board unanimously endorsed Evers for the position ahead of the September 20 parliamentary election.

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With the CDU, it's a reshuffle. I don't think we're seeing a change in policy.

However, opposition parties remain skeptical about the CDU's prospects under Evers's leadership. The Social Democratic Party's (SPD) lead candidate, Steffen Krach, described the move as a "reshuffle" within the CDU, suggesting it does not signal a significant policy shift. Krach argued that Evers, having supported Wegner until the end, represents the continuation of the "Wegner system" that still dictates the CDU's direction. Similar sentiments were echoed by representatives from the Green Party and The Left, who pointed to Evers's record as Finance Senator, citing his responsibility for cuts in social and cultural sectors.

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The CDU system continues to exist, regardless of whether Mr. Wegner is at the front or Mr. Evers.

AfD lead candidate Kristin Brinker also suggested that the "CDU system" persists regardless of who leads the ticket. She noted that Wegner's decision not to resign as Governing Mayor prevented a complete "tabula rasa" (clean slate). Brinker did, however, acknowledge Evers's ability to deliver quick remarks, adding a touch of personality to his public image.

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I have to stand by the government's policies since 2023. We don't have to hide the successes of this government.

Evers himself acknowledged his co-responsibility for the government's policies since 2023, stating he stands by them and does not need to hide the government's successes. Nevertheless, he expressed a desire to set his own tone and differentiate himself from Wegner. Evers emphasized the distinct roles of a Governing Mayor and a lead candidate, asserting that while the mayor represents, he will be the "campaigner," actively engaging in the electoral battle. He pledged to "go where it hurts" daily in his pursuit of victory.

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Indeed, a Governing Mayor is in a different role. He has to represent. I am now the campaigner, the one who has to go where it hurts. And I will do that, day after day.