German Chancellor to run for re-election despite falling support

(CLO) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is running for a second term despite weak support within his party.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has decided to run for re-election in early elections on February 23, 2025, after popular Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced he would not run.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (right) and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Photo: REUTERS/Fabian Bimmer

The decision by Mr Pistorius, who was seen as a leading candidate to replace Mr Scholz within his party, brings clarity after weeks of uncertainty.

Pistorius, Germany's most prominent politician today, publicly supported Scholz in a video posted on SPD media channels, stressing that Scholz was an excellent chancellor who had led the country through major crises.

However, within the SPD, many people support Pistorius more because Scholz is one of the most unpopular chancellors in German history, with the SPD only reaching 15% in surveys, behind the Conservatives (33%) and the far-right AfD (18%).

Political analysts say that the lack of confidence in Mr Scholz, even from members of his own party, puts him at a disadvantage compared to the conservative opposition candidate Friedrich Merz. However, Mr Scholz remains confident thanks to his experience in governing during a crisis, something his opponent Merz lacks.

Other parties have also put forward candidates for chancellor, including Robert Habeck from the Green Party, who is currently vice-chancellor and economics minister in the coalition government led by Mr Scholz.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/thu-tuong-duc-tiep-tuc-tai-tranh-cu-bat-chap-su-ung-ho-giam-sut-post322538.html