Scholz Faces Backlash Over 'Hofnarr' Remark About CDU's Joe Chialo

The German Chancellor denies allegations of racism after reportedly calling Berlin's Culture Senator a 'court jester' at a private event.

Olaf Scholz is accused of referring to CDU politician Joe Chialo as a 'Hofnarr' (court jester) during a private birthday event, sparking criticism from the CDU and others.
Chialo, a Black politician and Berlin's Culture Senator, has confirmed a 'situation' occurred but has declined to provide further details.
Scholz has denied any racist intent, stating the term was not racially connoted and expressing regret if Chialo felt personally affected by the comment.
The CDU has called for a public apology, with some party members labeling the remark as racist and inappropriate, while Scholz’s legal team is pursuing press-related actions against the reporting.
The controversy comes just 10 days before Germany's federal election, with Scholz’s SPD trailing in polls behind the CDU led by Friedrich Merz.