Overview
- In a Bunte interview, the SPD leader said he wants more "sensible men" in public life who empathize and understand.
- He recounted tearing up during a visit to Ukraine and argued that politicians should not act like emotionless machines.
- He described his working relationship with Chancellor Friedrich Merz as trusting, citing near-daily phone calls and close coordination.
- Media have reported that Merz called him "sensibel" before the CDU/CSU group, which he said was intended to discourage constant infighting.
- A recent dispute over the government's pension package set the backdrop after he ruled out further changes as Merz spoke to the Junge Union.