SPD leader Klingbeil praises Schwesig's handling of AfD

Lars Klingbeil, the leader of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD), has lauded Manuela Schwesig, the Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, for her approach to dealing with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Klingbeil suggested that Schwesig's strategy of prioritizing her own state's policies while firmly criticizing the AfD's platform is exemplary. He stated, "You have to do it like Manuela Schwesig. First and foremost, put forward your own policies, with which she strengthens her state as Minister-President. And then say bluntly what an AfD program would mean for the country."

He elaborated on the potential negative impacts of an AfD government, citing opposition to the minimum wage, collective bargaining, women's rights, and quality childcare. Klingbeil argued that such policies would significantly harm working people, families, and the economy.

Describing Schwesig as an "excellent minister-president" with whom he enjoys working, Klingbeil added, "And everyone in the SPD is happy that we have such a strong personality in our ranks." This praise comes amid internal pressures within the SPD regarding coalition reform plans, which have been unpopular with the party base. Schwesig herself has diverged from the federal government on certain issues, such as early retirement plans.

Amid speculation about Schwesig potentially moving into federal leadership, Klingbeil firmly rejected internal personnel debates. "I am very happy to be party leader. And I am convinced: The SPD is always strong when it concentrates on the problems of the people in this country and does not revolve around itself," he told RND.