Germany Sets Early Bundestag Election Date Amidst Coalition Collapse
The German Bundestag is set to hold an early election on February 23, 2025, following the dissolution of the traffic light coalition. Reports from the Süddeutsche Zeitung indicate that Union parliamentary leader Friedrich Merz of the CDU has accepted a proposal from the SPD for this early election date. The potential for this early election stems from Chancellor Olaf Scholz's intention to pose a question of confidence in the Bundestag on December 16, though this step is still pending confirmation.
Should Scholz proceed with the confidence vote, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier would have to decide on the Bundestag's dissolution by Christmas, as the Basic Law allows for a maximum of 21 days for this decision. Following such a dissolution, a 60-day timeframe would initiate for new elections, firmly placing the early election on the calendar for February 23, 2025, especially in light of the traffic light coalition's failure.
On November 6, Scholz hinted at his intentions regarding the confidence vote and the timeline for new elections, suggesting they should occur by the end of March. However, after facing considerable pressure from the Union party, he agreed to negotiate an earlier date on November 8. Given that the remaining red-green minority government lacks a majority in the Bundestag after the departure of the FDP, the dynamics in the Reichstag are shifting.
In discussions regarding the election timing, Merz initially proposed January 19, but the Federal Returning Officer, Ruth Brand, cautioned against rushing the election process. Merz later revised the proposal, suggesting February 16 or 23 as possible dates. Brand expressed confidence that the February dates would be legally secure during a hearing of the Bundestag's electoral review committee.
The SPD, in light of the election date's establishment, seeks concessions from the Union to facilitate the passage of critical projects in the Bundestag. These include initiatives such as increasing child benefits, introducing relief measures for industry and suppliers, and protecting the Constitutional Court from anti-democratic threats.
Additionally, Economics Minister Robert Habeck from the Greens has proposed a new special fund for Germany's Bundeswehr (defense forces), prompted by shifts in security policy following changes in the U.S. political landscape concerning Donald Trump's election, as well as ongoing threats posed by Russia.
Originally, the elections for the 21st Bundestag were scheduled for September 28, 2025. The looming early election now sets in motion significant political conversations and preparations, reflecting the urgency and volatility of current German politics.
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