Overview

• Horst Seehofer labeled Markus Söder’s years-long distancing from the Greens a strategic mistake in comments to Stern.
• Erwin Huber warned against “populist bashing” of the Greens and argued that democratic parties should remain open to cooperation.
• Both former CSU leaders emphasized that the firewall against the AfD must remain solid even as dialogue with the Greens is maintained.
• Coverage notes Huber’s recent outreach to the Greens, including his attendance at a September retreat of the party’s state parliamentary group.
• Reports recall that Söder has repeatedly attacked the Greens and ruled out a coalition after the last state election, though he has toned down some attacks since February.