SPD Names Olaf Scholz as Candidate Amid Internal Divisions and Leadership Criticism

As Scholz prepares for the February Bundestag elections, the SPD faces backlash over its handling of the candidacy debate and coalition tensions.

Olaf Scholz is set to be formally nominated as the SPD's candidate for Chancellor on Monday, following weeks of internal debate over his candidacy versus Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
Boris Pistorius declined to run, citing concerns over destabilizing the party and Scholz's leadership, though his popularity in polls had fueled calls for his candidacy.
The SPD's internal struggles, including criticism from the Juso youth wing and former party leaders, have raised concerns about its unity and readiness for the upcoming election.
Brandenburg's SPD Minister-President Dietmar Woidke's dismissal of a Green coalition partner has strained relations with the Greens, prompting criticism from Green leader Robert Habeck.
The SPD faces mounting pressure to address its declining support and clarify its vision, as competitors like the Greens and Sahra Wagenknecht's new party gain traction.