Overview
- Lars Klingbeil’s appointment as Vice-Chancellor solidifies his position, while Saskia Esken’s influence within the SPD continues to wane.
- Speculation suggests Esken may be offered a minor cabinet role, such as Development Minister or Wehrbeauftragte, as part of efforts to keep her in government.
- Prominent German media outlets have labeled Esken a “problem case,” with criticism often focusing on her personal traits rather than her policies, raising concerns about gender bias.
- The SPD women’s working group defends Esken’s contributions, emphasizing her importance to the party despite calls for leadership renewal.
- Discussions of potential successors to the co-chair roles include Verena Hubertz and Matthias Miersch, signaling a possible generational and strategic shift for the party.