Overview
- In interviews published Friday, Sven Schulze said Berlin must include the states in planned changes to health insurance, pensions and income tax.
- He argued that eastern Germany has more people who rely only on a state pension and lower average wages, which leaves less cushion for new costs.
- He called for a single, coordinated package delivered quickly and said he will hold off on judging any single idea until the full plan is on the table.
- He noted that many social laws require approval by the Bundesrat, the chamber representing state governments, which gives Länder a formal voice in shaping reforms.
- He cited about 90% backing in internal CDU votes for rejecting cabinet roles for AfD or Left ministers as he heads toward the September 6 state election.