The BSW faction in Thuringia remains aligned with CDU and SPD, while Saxony-Anhalt faces potential political shifts towards Wagenknecht's BSW and the AfD.

The Thuringian BSW faction is holding firm on its coalition with CDU Minister-President Voigt despite a dispute with the federal party leadership, prompting party founder Wagenknecht to call for a special party congress.

Many within Germany's CDU party, including former supporters, are expressing disappointment with Friedrich Merz, who was initially seen as a fresh start for the party.

Germany sees various political developments, including Green Party leader Banaszak suggesting CDU talks with Linkspartei after East German state elections, state security investigating attacks on election posters in Berlin, and SPD ministers proposing climate adaptation in the Basic Law.

An analysis compares Friedrich Merz's current struggles as CDU leader after a short tenure with Angela Merkel's 16 years in power, attributing the differences to both personal factors and societal changes.

The BSW federal board has demanded a coalition break with CDU and SPD in Thuringia, aiming to force Minister President Voigt's resignation, a move that has not been well-received within the state party.

Sven Schulze, the CDU's lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt, faced ridicule and scorn after two of his campaign posters appeared to show the same woman, once with a disability and once without.

The election campaign in Sachsen-Anhalt highlights voter sentiment, with one voter stating they are not close to the AfD but far from the CDU. This reflects a complex political landscape and potential shifts in voter allegiance.

Hessian CDU members feel their Minister President Boris Rhein is a logical candidate for Federal President, after long feeling overlooked by Chancellor Merz.

Bodo Ramelow has expressed support for cooperation between the Left Party and the CDU in Saxony-Anhalt. This proposal suggests a potential cross-party alliance in the German state.

A commentary discusses how German political parties, including Linke, CDU, and AfD, appear to prioritize maintaining a 'firewall' against certain ideologies over focusing on substantive policy for the country's welfare.

An article from Faz suggests that the CDU should be honest with its voters regarding potential cooperation with the left-wing party Die Linke.

A liveblog covers various developments in Germany, including the IfW President accusing Defense Minister Pistorius of incorrect investments, the Left party not ruling out support for CDU in Saxony-Anhalt, and US security agencies suspecting Moscow behind an incident in Leipzig.

The CDU has successfully incorporated radical demands for European asylum law reform into a European People's Party resolution, though these proposals face significant legal and political hurdles.

Thorsten Frei, CDU parliamentary group leader, reiterated the party's fundamental decision against forming a government with the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, emphasizing that the regional branch cannot decide independently.

A German media outlet questioned the absence of a statement from Mainz CDU parliamentarians regarding a drone attack on Leipzig airport.

German climate activist Luisa Neubauer and CDU politician Sepp Müller engaged in a discussion about how climate protection can be reconciled with economic competitiveness. The two reportedly found common ground during their debate.

Portugal's National Election Commission (CNE) has detected signs of crime in the municipal bulletins from Seixal for July and August 2025, citing a violation of electoral neutrality. Paulo Silva (CDU) denies any irregularities.

A commentary suggests that the CDU's current nervousness stems not from communicative errors by the Chancellor, but from a dawning realization that governing is no longer a given, leading the party to focus primarily on itself.

Comedian Dieter Hallervorden once again campaigned in Saxony-Anhalt, aiming to help the CDU achieve success, but his outspoken style and criticisms reportedly caused irritation within the party.

CDU parliamentary group leader Thorsten Frei has expressed reservations about mandating a woman for the upcoming German Federal President election in January. While many envision a female successor to Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Frei is urging caution.

Despite Friedrich Merz being on summer vacation, significant discontent is brewing within Germany's CDU party, with a state branch even campaigning with a comedian who mocks the party leader.

A debate has erupted in Germany over potential improvements to the 'Rente mit 63' (pension at 63) policy, following criticism from three East German CDU state premiers regarding the black-red coalition's pension package.

CDU politician Reddig has publicly disagreed with a CDU Minister-President, advocating for a comprehensive pension package, amidst discussions on CSU leader Merz's chancellorship prospects and calls for the Union's clear stance on early retirement.

Comedian Didi Hallervorden's performance at a CDU election campaign event in Saxony-Anhalt, where he criticized Pistorius and Merz, is deemed unconvincing for voters.

Germany's federal CDU has distanced itself from campaign appearances featuring actor Dieter Hallervorden in Saxony-Anhalt, though the state branch defends the events.

The CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader insists on ending the 'Rente mit 63' (pension at 63) scheme, citing concerns about 'generational justice'.

Markus Söder has surprisingly defended the German Chancellor, while another key figure remains notably silent, highlighting internal power dynamics within the CDU regarding support for the Chancellor.

CDU state premiers in East Germany are advocating for the preservation of early retirement at age 63, a move that could undermine the financing of a proposed new capital pension scheme.

The head of the Young Union (JU) in Brandenburg has resigned from the CDU, stating she has lost faith in the government's course, amidst broader discussions within the party.

Following Thorsten Frei's election as parliamentary group leader and the appointment of new ministers, discontent with Chancellor Merz is reportedly growing within CDU state associations.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing his most serious political crisis since taking office, triggered by a controversy involving his ally Jens Spahn. The scandal forced Spahn to resign from his role as head of the CDU/CSU parliamentary faction.

Recent personnel changes within the CDU have sparked discussions about whether the influence of women in the party is growing.

Recently signed LA Ram Alex Cook is being discussed, with attention drawn to his past connections with figures like Jimmy Lake, Harrison Mevis, Puka Nacua, and Trent McDuffie.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is experiencing internal criticism regarding its leadership, with some members expressing strong disapproval of Friedrich Merz's approach. Critics suggest the party is not learning from past mistakes and that Merz is not effectively leading the organization.

Helmut Kohl's wine cellar in the Mainzer Staatskanzlei, established in 1970, has been revealed as a place that was long considered taboo for the CDU party.

Former Bundesliga goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald is running as a candidate for the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in an upcoming local election in Germany.

Kanzler spricht über Kabinettsumbildung +++ Heftige Kritik an Merz aus der CDU-Fraktion in Rheinland-Pfalz +++ Hoppermann zur Generalsekretärin gewählt +++ Entwicklungen im Liveblog

Chancellor Merz's cabinet reshuffle faces criticism for delays in replacing Transport Minister Schnieder, while the departure of Jens Spahn, once a hopeful figure for those dissatisfied with Merkel's CDU, raises questions about who will miss the former faction leader.

Rhineland-Palatinate Justice Minister Helmut Martin (CDU) supports ZDF's decision to uninvite musician Danger Dan, stating that it does not endanger artistic freedom but rather upholds it.

The far-right AfD has become the most popular party in Berlin, garnering 19% support and surpassing the CDU. This surge in popularity comes ahead of crucial elections scheduled for September.

A close associate of Chancellor Friedrich Merz has been appointed to lead the CDU and CSU parliamentary group, one of the most influential positions in German politics. The ruling conservative parties moved quickly to fill the role.

The SPD parliamentary group's deputy leader anticipates a "trusting but difficult cooperation" with Frei, who is expected to be elected as the new CDU/CSU faction leader on Wednesday, amidst ongoing political developments in Germany.

CDU politician Frei from Baden-Württemberg is set to lead the Union parliamentary group in the German Bundestag, succeeding Jens Spahn who resigned due to the 'surrogacy affair.'

Following Jens Spahn's resignation, members of the CDU party are debating whether his departure came too late and the extent of the damage the affair caused to state election campaigns, with some likening it to 'preaching water and drinking wine'.

Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel has commented on the surrogacy of German CDU politician Jens Spahn, describing it as 'only something for the gay bourgeoisie.' Bettel, who is friends with Spahn, expressed his reservations about the practice.

A persistent CDU politician in Saxony-Anhalt continues his election campaign, facing generalized public frustration but remaining confident in achieving over 30% of the votes.

Austrian political parties are united in their efforts to combat international surrogacy, with the government seeking to fight it globally, the FPÖ pushing for a constitutional law, and the Greens criticizing perceived double standards. The paternity of German CDU politician Jens Spahn has also become a topic of discussion in Austria.

The CDU/CSU parliamentary group will interrupt its summer break to hold a special session on July 29 to decide on the successor to Jens Spahn as group chairman.

The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt reportedly needs to do little campaigning itself, as the election outcome will largely be determined by the campaigns of other parties, particularly the CDU.

An analysis of Germany's 'Schwarz-Rot' (CDU/CSU and SPD) coalition government highlights three key insights into their reform efforts and the pressure to deliver results after a challenging year, questioning their ability to regain public trust.

The fact that Jens Spahn, head of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, and his husband Daniel Funke had a child via a surrogate mother in the USA has sparked strong reactions and a new debate in Germany.

The CDU Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has called for the resignation of Union parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn, stating he is no longer tenable due to the surrogacy issue.

Vor 66 Jahren löste ein CDU-Innenminister in Rheinland-Pfalz einen rechtsextremen Landesverband auf – ein Fall, der heute kaum noch bekannt ist.

During a 'Sommerpressekonferenz,' German politician Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, reportedly faced a moment of silence when questioned about his biggest mistake, following a positive assessment of the government's performance.

Axel Hellmann, CEO of Eintracht Frankfurt, is considering running for the office of Lord Mayor, a prospect that the CDU party views seriously despite having other priorities.

Thuringia's Interior Minister Georg Maier (SPD) believes there are 'high chances of success' for a partial ban of the Höcke-led AfD state association, while the CDU in Erfurt opposes the move and the Saxon government warns against the attempt.

CDU politician Bareiß remains hospitalized after a car accident but is not in life-threatening condition.

The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt has presented its 100-day program with ten central points, while Finance Senator Evers is expected to become the CDU's top candidate in Berlin.

Two months before the election, Berlin's Mayor Kai Wegner has withdrawn his top candidacy, making a fresh start difficult for the Berlin CDU. The party now faces the urgent task of organizing a new election campaign.

The Bundestag and Bundesrat are holding their final sessions before the summer break, while the Federal President is working from an alternative location and the Rolling Stones are set to release a new album.

Frankfurt CDU politician Martin-Benedikt Schäfer is set to join the Hessian State Parliament for only a few weeks before taking on a new role as head of the public order department in Frankfurt, a move deemed formally correct but strategically unwise.

Leading German CDU/CSU politicians have rejected a proposal by the SPD to enshrine heat protection as a joint responsibility of the federal and state governments in the Basic Law.

Germany is considering amending its constitution to include climate adaptation measures in response to increasing heatwaves and the climate crisis. The proposal has sparked debate among political parties, with a CDU minister now publicly opposing the 'abstract discussions' about such a constitutional change.

According to an INSA poll published by Bild, support for Germany's governing CDU/CSU bloc has fallen to its lowest level in nearly five years, trailing the AfD by 8 percentage points.

Elke and Thomas Dick, active in the CDU for over 20 years, faced hostility after their son was killed by an Afghan man in July.

A new CDU-led coalition is forming in Wiesbaden, Germany, and has released the outlines of its program, including the creation of an additional department for the opposition SPD.

Sven Schulze, the CDU's lead candidate for Saxony-Anhalt, has clarified his position following a discussion about his election advertising, stating he cannot perform miracles but intends to use better posters in the future.

CDU politician Julia Klöckner unblocked an artist on Instagram who had criticized her for posting an AI-generated image.

Thorsten Frei has proposed CDU politician Dos Santos-Wintz as the new First Parliamentary Secretary of the Union faction in the Bundestag. Meanwhile, SPD state leaders are calling for an end to cuts in housing benefits.

Hessian CDU members feel their Minister President Boris Rhein is a logical candidate for Federal President, after long feeling overlooked by Chancellor Merz. The Hessian CDU believes Rhein is capable and that his consideration is only logical.

Former Thuringian Minister-President Bodo Ramelow has recommended a coalition between The Left (Die Linke) and the CDU in Sachsen-Anhalt to prevent an AfD-led government, drawing on Thuringia's experience.

The leader of Germany's Left Party, Janine Wissler, has indicated openness to potential cooperation with the CDU, particularly if the AfD fails to secure an absolute majority. This statement suggests a shift in the Left Party's traditional stance on alliances.

Il responsabile dell’attuazione della Riforma europea dell’Asilo per il gruppo della Cdu/Csu al Bundestag: “Se si arriverà all’applicazione del meccanismo di solidarietà sarà possibile una…

The Portuguese Communist Party (CDU) has filed a complaint with the Public Prosecutor's Office, alleging that the municipality of Loures was defrauded of 1.1 million euros by ceding land without evaluation instead of receiving cash payments in an urban protocol.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's popularity is plummeting, with the AfD leading in polls, leading to open discussions within the CDU about his potential replacement after critical state elections in September.

German MP Thomas Bareiß, who was not part of the inner leadership of the Southwest CDU, is now under investigation by the public prosecutor's office following a serious car accident, potentially jeopardizing his political career.

The base of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is reportedly turning away from Friedrich Merz, who had promised 'CDU pure' but has made compromises in government, much to their displeasure.

CDU politician Thomas Bareiß has announced a temporary leave after a serious car accident, following the discovery of synthetic narcotics in his blood during an analysis.

In Germany's East, the Green party is defending a CDU state premier, Sven Schulze, who seeks to slow down pension reform, a stance he shares with others in Saxony-Anhalt.

A German liveblog reports that CDU politician Bareiß has lost his driver's license, and four individuals deemed 'Gefährder' (potential threats) in Berlin are wearing ankle monitors. The Unionsfraktionschef also stated there is no room for negotiation on early retirement at 63.

CDU politician Marc Henrichmann suggests that migrants might have been used as a weapon in a hybrid attack on the EU in Ceuta, potentially involving Russia. The use of migrants as a weapon is not a new tactic.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's internal policies have led to resignations, falling trust among voters and party colleagues, and worsening electoral prospects for the CDU, with calls for his resignation by September 21.

In Saxony-Anhalt, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is reportedly hoping to attract voters from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

Markus Söder, leader of the CSU party, has publicly expressed strong support for CDU leader Friedrich Merz, emphasizing the need for unity amidst recent speculation about Merz's leadership due to poor government poll numbers.

The German Chancellor is facing significant criticism as his approval ratings are catastrophic and his party is dissatisfied. Neither citizens nor the CDU are questioning their own criteria, according to the report.

Unrest is growing within Germany's CDU party following personnel decisions by Friedrich Merz, with critics suggesting he leads the party like a company. This internal turmoil and criticism of Merz's leadership are causing significant disquiet among party members.

German politician Jens Spahn, formerly sidelined, is now receiving praise and is seen as potentially making a comeback within the CDU party.

A CDU event in Germany saw actor Dieter Hallervorden perform a song critical of party leaders, while a liveblog also reported on threats by Michael Kretschmer to halt pension and care reforms.

Three CDU state premiers from East Germany, Kretschmer, Schulze, and Voigt, have voiced opposition to the abolition of pension without deductions at 45 years, aligning with Schwesig and against Merz. They emphasize the need for the federal government to consider the specific conditions in East Germany.

A period of unrest within the CDU has concluded with the planned election of Thorsten Frei, allowing Friedrich Merz time for a vacation.

Many Social Democrats are reportedly dismayed by current developments within the CDU, leading to a noticeable lack of typical criticism from the SPD, reflecting the state of the German coalition.

Chancellor Merz's cabinet reshuffle, intended to create new momentum, has instead caused unease among CDU politicians in Saxony-Anhalt, particularly regarding the handling of Tino Sorge.

Following Jens Spahn's resignation, Friedrich Merz's attempt to reorganize his team has led to significant unrest within the CDU, with many Christian Democrats expressing anger over the party's current state.

Die CDU gerät in die SPD-Todeszone. Sie ist verloren, wenn sie das Lebensgefühl bürgerlicher Sicherheit verletzt. Die Migration ist immer noch der Schlüssel.

Portugal's CDU party has criticized the Natural Sustainability project and its managing company, AIGP do Alva, for "incomprehensible decisions" regarding felled trees left on the ground, raising concerns about fire risk.

A cabinet reshuffle in Rhineland-Palatinate has caused significant discontent within the CDU parliamentary group, leading to a planned meeting with Kanzler Merz being canceled amid accusations of 'missing trust' and a 'mood at rock bottom'.

A commentary piece discusses the struggles of CDU leader Friedrich Merz, suggesting a change in leadership amidst poor performance ahead of elections.

Jens Spahn war einst Hoffnungsträger für alle, die von der Merkel-CDU genug hatten. Die sind weiterhin zahlreich. Aber vermissen sie den gestürzten Fraktionschef?

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is reportedly considering announcing a cabinet reshuffle on Friday, following the sudden departure of a key CDU official, Jens Spahn, amidst a dispute.

The AfD has taken a standalone lead in a Berlin pre-election poll for the first time in its history. This shift follows a decline in support for the ruling CDU and SPD coalition, particularly after the mayor's high-profile resignation from the election race.

While Saxony's CDU Minister-President Michael Kretschmer expresses willingness to engage with the AfD, the federal CDU is mobilizing its members to combat the far-right party.

The political setback of Jens Spahn serves as a warning to his successor, Thorsten Frei, emphasizing the critical importance of socio-political issues for the CDU/CSU Union in Germany.

Thorsten Frei, a close confidant of Friedrich Merz, is set to become the new leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in Germany, a move that has drawn some scrutiny.

A senior official from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has criticized the Philippines' outdated bank secrecy rules, particularly regarding FCDU deposits, in the context of subpoenas related to Sara Duterte.

Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer has criticized the CDU's 'firewall' policy against the AfD, stating that 'whoever still talks about firewalls has not recognized the signs of the times,' contradicting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's recent stance.

The resignation of Unionsfraktionschef Spahn has ignited a new debate in Germany regarding surrogacy, which is currently prohibited in the country. The Green Party is open to re-examining the issue, while the CDU maintains its opposition.

An undeterred CDU politician continues to campaign in Saxony-Anhalt, engaging with the public in pedestrian zones and expressing confidence in achieving over 30% support despite generalized frustration.

The Christian Union (CDU/CSU) in Germany will elect a new head of its parliamentary group on July 29. This decision was announced following internal discussions within the party.

Jens Spahn's resignation reveals a perceived lack of understanding within the CDU leadership regarding the mood and sentiment among the party's grassroots members.

The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt reportedly needs to do little campaigning itself, as the election outcome will largely be determined by the campaigns of other parties, particularly the CDU.

Several potential candidates are emerging for the leadership of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in Germany, with Chancellor Merz reportedly aiming to resolve the personnel matter before the summer recess.

Der CDU-Politiker ist nach der Geburt seines Sohnes mit Vorwürfen der Doppelmoral konfrontiert, weil er und seine Partei Leihmutterschaft ablehnen.

The faction leader of Germany's CDU party, despite publicly opposing surrogacy, has reportedly made an exception for himself.

Bislang konnte sich Daniel Günther vom Bundestrend absetzen. Doch die Erfolgsgeschichte einer „linken CDU“ ist vorbei.

German conservative politician Jens Spahn announced he became a father after his husband adopted a child via surrogacy, a practice legal in the country since 2017. However, his party, the CDU, clarified that surrogacy itself remains prohibited in Germany.

Hesse's Education Minister Armin Schwarz (CDU) intends to conduct a digital survey shortly after the summer holidays to determine the extent of school hour cancellations. The Green party has criticized the minister for not answering many questions regarding the plan.

The CDU party is advocating for enhanced public transport conditions in Porto, arguing that the increase in passenger numbers should not lead to further overcrowding but rather improved service quality.

António Bogalho de Sobral, a mayor elected by the CDU who governed for 34 years and was decorated in 2015, has passed away. The municipality highlighted him as a 'man born with political instinct, with great capacity for dialogue, hardworking and humble.'

Germany's CDU and CSU parties are reportedly considering a proposal to revoke the voting rights of Björn Höcke, a move described as an act of desperation and a shift towards authoritarian measures in their engagement with right-wing populists.

Berlin's Governing Mayor, Kai Wegner, is facing scrutiny and has reportedly damaged his reputation, making things difficult for the CDU party following his late withdrawal from an unspecified event.

Berlin's Finanzsenator Evers has been named the CDU's lead candidate in Berlin, following Wegner's withdrawal. The Bundesrat also passed health insurance reform amidst these political developments.

The article questions the effectiveness of Friedrich Merz's promise to diminish the AfD through good governance, noting the CDU's current struggles.

Berlin's ruling mayor is facing a crisis meeting with the CDU to discuss his future following a significant power outage in the city, which has been described as a 'mistake after the mistake'.

CDU state premiers are advocating for the 'Rente mit 63' (retirement at 63) plan, emphasizing specific considerations for East Germany, a stance that has met with resistance.

In the debate surrounding the AfD within the CDU, Haseloff stated that the AfD is a 'Western party,' contributing to the ongoing discussion about the party's identity and regional support.

Sahra Wagenknecht has expressed willingness to speak with Björn Höcke, while CDU politician Serap Güler Banaszak suggested the CDU should also consider talks with the Left Party after upcoming state elections.

Elke and Thomas Dick, active in the CDU for over 20 years, faced hostility after their son was killed by an Afghan national in July, as detailed in a visit to Landstuhl.

CDU General Secretary Franziska Hoppermann has rejected proposals to enshrine climate adaptation and heat protection as a joint task of federal and state governments in the German Basic Law.

Annika Klose, a pension expert for Germany's SPD party, has proposed phasing out the 'pension at 63' scheme over five years. This suggestion comes amidst internal party rebellion and opposition from parts of the CDU against the planned reform of early retirement.

Analysts suggest that Turkey's ruling AKP party may struggle to survive in the political landscape following the eventual departure of President Erdoğan. The party's long-term viability without its charismatic leader is being questioned.

A controversy has emerged in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern regarding the exclusion of the CDU and Left Party from a TV debate hosted by RTL/ntv. The debate featured only Schwesig and the AfD, leading to questions about fairness and representation.

Wetterau district administrator Jan Weckler (CDU) commented on the Bundeswehr's interest in the former Friedberg barracks, which currently houses a refugee reception center, stating his pragmatic view but also outlining demands.

Concerns are being raised about North Rhine-Westphalia's black-green coalition budget, questioning if the state is heading towards uncontrolled debt despite earlier promises from CDU and Greens for no new debt.

The article suggests that Germany's CDU party should be transparent with its voters regarding any potential cooperation with The Left party.

Sven Schulze is conducting an intense election campaign for the CDU in Eastern Germany, pushing himself and the party to their limits. He has a tight 222-day timeframe to secure a victory in the upcoming elections.

The AfD party is on the verge of achieving historic election results in Germany, potentially leading to a coalition between the CDU and the Left party to counter its rise. This development signals a significant shift in the German political landscape.

The news of the day includes severe drought across Europe, a contentious debate between climate activist Luisa Neubauer and CDU politician Sepp Müller, and an apology from Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker.

Comedian Dieter Hallervorden is supporting CDU top candidate Sven Schulze in the Saxony-Anhalt election campaign, explaining his reasons in an interview.

East German states are protesting the proposed abolition of the pension at 63 policy, with CDU Minister-Presidents Michael Kretschmer, Sven Schulze, and Mario Voigt expressing opposition despite previously holding differing views.

Calls for a woman to hold Germany's highest state office are emerging, including from within the CDU, while CDU MP Bareiß announces a leave of absence following an accident, and Klingbeil suggests seriously considering an AfD ban.

German Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil has called for a serious review of a potential ban on the AfD party, while CDU MP Bareiß announced a break following an accident under investigation for negligent road endangerment and bodily harm.

The German Social Democratic Party (SPD) is keen to maintain the 'Rente mit 63' (pension at 63) policy, particularly supported by politicians from East Germany. The ongoing pension debate is reportedly causing discomfort for SPD leaders Bas and Klingbeil.

Three CDU state premiers in Germany are reportedly prepared for the 'pension at 63' policy to soon become a thing of the past, indicating a shift in the ongoing pension debate.

German police have seized the driving license of CDU politician Bareiß as the public prosecutor's office investigates the parliament member. This development comes amidst other news including four individuals in Berlin now wearing ankle monitors.

Germany's pension compromise is reportedly crumbling ahead of state elections in East Germany, as the CDU and SPD grow nervous about the rising support for the AfD, making them hesitant to scrap the popular 'pension at 63' policy.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's pension reform is at risk as the premiers of three eastern German states, all members of his own CDU party, have opposed parts of it.

SPD leader Saskia Esken (Bas) has called on the Union parties (CDU/CSU) to clarify their position on the 'Rente mit 63' (retirement at 63) policy, indicating the Social Democrats are open to renegotiating the pension package.

President John Mahama commissioned the refurbished Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), marking a significant step in restoring the state-owned refinery's operations.

A CDU mayoral candidate in Berlin has published a debate contribution emphasizing conservative values, stating 'I am conservative. And that's a good thing!'

Saxony's Minister President Kretschmer's comments about the AfD have caused a stir, reflecting the views of many within the CDU's eastern state associations.

Michael Kretschmer, a CDU Minister-President, has threatened that the Bundesrat could prevent the federal government's planned pension and care reforms. The liveblog also covers a Brandenburg JU leader leaving the CDU and internal party discussions.

Three CDU state premiers, Kretschmer, Schulze, and Voigt, have joined Schwesig in opposing the abolition of pension without deductions at 45 years, arguing that the federal government must consider conditions in East Germany.

In a CDU parliamentary group meeting, members expressed dissatisfaction with Friedrich Merz's personnel reshuffle, which, while seemingly appeasing some, has consumed a political tool that the Chancellor might soon need.

Germany's new CDU Health Minister is under pressure to quickly implement the draft long-term care reform law while fending off demands for further social adjustments.

Thorsten Frei, former head of the Chancellery staff, has been elected leader of the Christian Union (CDU/CSU) parliamentary group in the Bundestag with 91.9% of the votes during an extraordinary session.

The German government is undergoing a reshuffle, which will result in the Hessen-CDU party holding only one high office in Berlin. This reconstruction is expected to influence upcoming elections in Germany.

Following the resignation of Spahn and Friedrich Merz's subsequent team reshuffle, there is significant unrest within Germany's CDU party, with some members reportedly discussing a future leadership without Merz.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced his choices for the Ministry of Transport and the CDU's general secretary amidst significant internal party dissatisfaction regarding his recent handling of affairs.

Chancellor Merz is orchestrating a cabinet reshuffle in the German government following the resignation of CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn, who faced criticism for circumventing Germany's surrogacy ban.

Loyalist Thorsten Frei is tasked with resolving internal conflicts within the CDU/CSU, though he should not expect further advancement for his efforts.

Following significant offseason trades for players like Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie, Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams are heading into a critical training camp with high expectations as Super Bowl favorites.

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's CDU party, is reportedly facing increasing pressure to consider a coalition with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Reports suggest a powerful media conglomerate chief may be influencing this push for cooperation.

Thorsten Frei, a close confidant of Friedrich Merz, has been replaced as parliamentary group leader for the conservative CDU/CSU bloc following a surrogacy controversy.

Darauf hätten sich Kanzler und CDU-Chef Friedrich Merz und der CSU-Vorsitzende Markus Söder geeinigt, berichtete die "Bild"-Zeitung am Mittwoch

A majority in the German Bundestag opposes legalizing surrogacy, with CDU, CSU, AfD, and many Green and Left party members advocating for its continued prohibition.

The Almada municipality is considering a motion of no confidence against its PS-CDU executive following failures in the water supply system, with the PSD/Almada blaming inadequate planning.

Climate economist Ottmar Edenhofer, one of the world's most cited researchers, discusses whether climate protection should be scaled back to strengthen the German economy and critiques the approaches of Fridays for Future and the CDU.

The CDU party will only agree to a reform of the debt brake if it leads to a reduction in the debt ratio, increasing the divide with the SPD's plans within the German coalition.

A recent "Sonntagstrend" poll indicates that the AfD has slightly increased its lead over the CDU/CSU in voter preference, amidst ongoing debates including Jens Spahn's surrogacy.

Jens Spahn has resigned from his position as the CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader, following growing criticism and a decisive call from the Federal Chancellor amidst internal party turmoil.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (likely a reference to Olaf Scholz, or a meeting with CDU leader Merz) met to present common goals and criticized China, aiming to overcome earlier tensions.

Former Health Minister Jens Spahn of the conservative CDU, who opposed legalizing surrogacy in Germany, has become a father with the help of a surrogate mother in the US.

After a decline due to incorrect statements by Mayor Wegner regarding a power outage, Berlin's CDU is regaining ground in polls with its new lead candidate, Evers, though the Left Party remains the strongest force.

According to a new poll, Berlin's CDU has gained three percentage points following the resignation of Kai Wegner. The liveblog also mentions that Spahn and his husband have become parents, sparking a debate about surrogacy.

Maria das Dores Meira, the mayor of Setúbal, has suspended her mandate due to health reasons and will be replaced by the municipality's vice-mayor, Maria do Carmo Tiago. Meira was elected to the Setúbal City Council in 2025, following 15 years as a CDU mayor.

Germany's governing coalition is experiencing internal disagreement regarding Israel's settlement policy, with Social Democratic Party (SPD) officials criticizing Foreign Minister Johann Vandefull (CDU) for opposing potential EU sanctions against Israel.

Berlin's Finance Senator Stefan Evers has been named the new lead candidate for the CDU in the upcoming Berlin election, succeeding Kai Wegner. His selection aims to strengthen the CDU's position in the city.

Resistance is growing against proposed cuts to child support for single parents in Germany, while other news includes a CDU politician's car accident and the re-election of an AfD state leader.

Kai Wegner has withdrawn as the CDU's top candidate for the Berlin state election, with Stefan Evers stepping in as the new CDU Spitzenkandidat. Evers discussed his relationship with Wegner, the city's record debt, and his stance on 'free-of-charge politics' for high earners in an interview.

A new Ipsos poll in Germany shows the far-right AfD rising to 28%, widening its lead over the CDU/CSU, which is at its lowest level since 2022. The Left Party also reached a historic high, matching the SPD.

In Baden-Württemberg, Green, CDU, and SPD parties are adopting an even stricter strategy of demarcation against the AfD, as previous attempts to isolate the party have not been effective.