Overview

• Robert Habeck, Germany's Green Party chancellor candidate, disclosed that he considered leaving politics during the summer of 2024 due to eroded trust within the coalition government and public perception.
• Habeck described a period of introspection, questioning his ability to restore trust in himself, his party, and Germany's democratic system.
• His decision to remain in politics was influenced by internal discussions within the Green Party, which ultimately supported him as their candidate for chancellor.
• Habeck advocates for a significant increase in Germany's defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, nearly doubling current levels, citing the need to deter aggression and ensure national security.
• He proposed financing the defense budget increase through loans or special funds without abolishing Germany's constitutional debt brake.