Saxony's leader to back CDU election campaigns in eastern Germany
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Saxony's Minister-President Michael Kretschmer plans to support the CDU's election campaigns in the eastern German states of Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
- Kretschmer praised his SPD colleague Manuela Schwesig in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern for her effectiveness, while also noting the region needs change.
- He expressed confidence in Sven Schulze's leadership in Saxony-Anhalt, believing his clear communication will resonate with voters.
Michael Kretschmer, the Minister-President of Saxony, intends to actively support the election campaigns of his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party colleagues in the eastern German states of Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Kretschmer, a prominent figure within the CDU, aims to lend his influence to bolster the party's electoral prospects in these regions.
I very much wish that the CDU has a strong role in the next government.
Kretschmer recently garnered attention for his public praise of Manuela Schwesig, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Despite their party affiliations, Kretschmer acknowledged Schwesig as one of his most effective colleagues, stating, "To tell the truth, she is one of the most assertive colleagues and has achieved many things." However, he also conveyed a sentiment that the region requires a "dynamic, a change," suggesting that while Schwesig has been effective, a fresh approach might be needed.
It is perhaps unusual to praise the SPD colleague. But the truth also includes that she is one of the most assertive colleagues and has achieved many things. But one notices in the country that it needs dynamism, a change.
Regarding Saxony-Anhalt, Kretschmer expressed strong conviction in the re-election of his CDU counterpart, Sven Schulze. "He has shown through his work and his commitment how powerful he is and that he is the one who can clarify issues in Berlin," Kretschmer said. He believes Schulze's direct communication style will be a decisive factor for voters in the upcoming state election.
He has shown through his work and his commitment how powerful he is and that he is the one who can clarify issues in Berlin. Sven Schulze speaks things clearly.
Kretschmer also shared a lighthearted perspective on campaigning in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, describing it as "a bit like a vacation." He humorously noted that a visit to Saxony-Anhalt is worthwhile for the Baumkuchen, a traditional layered cake, particularly in Salzwedel, expressing his fondness for the pastry and his willingness to compare it with those from his native Oberlausitz region.
Campaigning in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is not a burden, but a bit like vacation.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.