(de-news.net) – CDU leader Friedrich Merz has ruled out a reform of the debt brake before the newly elected Bundestag convenes, stating that such a reform would be a complex and difficult task. Such an endeavor requires a two-thirds majority. Merz was cautious about considerations for a new special fund for the Bundeswehr to improve its equipment, mentioning that discussions are ongoing but it is too early to make any statements. Representatives of the Union and SPD are discussing an additional budget of up to 200 billion euros for the Bundeswehr to strengthen its defense capabilities, but SPD and CDU spokespersons declined to comment, according to a media report.
CDU/CSU parliamentary group managing director Thorsten Frei indicated openness to a new special fund for the Bundeswehr, citing the need for quick decisions in foreign and security policy. However, the CDU politician emphasized that this is different from the question of generally reforming the debt brake. In the new Bundestag, AfD and Linke have a blocking minority. Consequently, both Merz and Chancellor Olaf Scholz pointed out that the current Bundestag can still make decisions until the new parliament’s constitutive session, which will be organized by March 25.
On his part, Federal Finance Minister Jörg Kukies (SPD) has urged for prompt discussions on amending the Basic Law for new debts, noting the limited time before the new Bundestag configuration takes effect. He emphasized the necessity for swift action by the Bundestag factions. Kukies stated that, legally, an expedited procedure for amending the Basic Law is feasible to implement current financial proposals, such as reforming the debt brake or establishing a new special fund, as the current Bundestag retains full legislative powers. SPD and Greens are open to reforming the debt brake but demand concrete proposals from Merz.
In the SPD executive committee, the Union’s considerations to increase the special fund for the Bundeswehr without relaxing the debt brake were deemed insufficient. Development Minister Svenja Schulze (SPD) emphasized the need to reform the debt brake for greater military security and better living conditions. She argued that discussions should not be limited to Bundeswehr financing but should also include special programs for investments in a socially just state, such as affordable housing, quality childcare and schools, punctual trains, clean and safe stations, well-maintained roads, and a good healthcare system.
Minister President of Schleswig-Holstein, Daniel Günther (CDU), supports a debt brake reform in the next legislative period, suggesting it could be passed with a majority in the next Bundestag. He acknowledged the necessity of securing votes from the Left Party for a constitutional amendment. The Left announced potential openness to a reform favoring investments but not defense spending. Günther also advocates for a new defense special fund, rejecting its use for climate protection or infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of focusing on immediate necessities, particularly defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, the departing FDP faction expressed unwillingness to engage in discussions on the debt brake. Parliamentary Secretary Stephan Thomae reiterated the FDP’s non-negotiable stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining economic stability in Europe amid international uncertainty. Thomae criticized Merz for addressing significant issues like debt brake reform and a special fund for the Bundeswehr before assuming government responsibility. He highlighted that constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority, which the newly elected parliament cannot achieve with only CDU/CSU, SPD, and Green votes.
