Overview
- In a ZDF interview, the CDU general secretary vowed to seal reforms this year despite multiple elections, saying election dates are no excuse and the coalition must focus.
- He offered self-critique after the fizzled 'Herbst der Reformen,' declared there will be no more sugarcoating, and described a chance for a fresh start.
- Linnemann promised reforms will not be designed to hurt people and said all groups must contribute, citing energy-price relief, bureaucracy cuts and the new Aktivrente already taking effect.
- He warned against creating an 'Ampel 2.0' impression, urging coalition partners to end public spats and prioritize solving core problems.
- On Saxony-Anhalt, he welcomed reports that Reiner Haseloff may step aside for Sven Schulze to help counter the AfD and said there was no pressure from Friedrich Merz; separately, the CDU canceled a planned Mainz retreat due to severe weather.