Surrogacy controversy triggers resignation of German politician Jens Spahn

Jens Spahn, the leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has resigned from his post, citing the incompatibility of his private family life with his political responsibilities. The decision was triggered by the birth of his child through a surrogate mother in the United States.

Spahn's resignation comes after he privately utilized a service that he had publicly opposed. Surrogacy is illegal in Germany, and Spahn had previously expressed opposition to its legalization. Critics have pointed to this apparent contradiction between his private actions and his political stance as the reason for his departure.

This surrogacy controversy is the latest in a series of political challenges Spahn has faced. His career has been marked by other significant debates, including the procurement of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and the failed appointment of Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf to the constitutional court. However, the surrogacy issue proved to be the decisive factor leading to his resignation.

The article also touches upon other topics, including the upcoming World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and a brief mention of a million-dollar leather jacket. The podcast "Was jetzt?" is produced by Azadê Peşmen and features contributions from Susanne Hehr and Celine Yasemin Rolle.