Monday, April 13, 2026

Why Can't German Coalitions 'Work'?

 Wel....for a long time (after the war)....you had three basic parties....left-of-center SPD, the right-of-center CDU-CSU, and the FDP (usually anti-tax and cut budget folks).  The FDP served to be the 'partner'....getting a cabinet post or two, and forcing compromises.

As the Green Party arrived....the SPD lost some voters, and started to be a partner.  As the Linke Party arrived....more SPD voters switched.

For about 20 years....the SPD and CDU-CSU folks have generally lost voters...to the point that combined....they can't get 50-percent of the seats to hold a coalition.

From 2025....the election results were enough....that the CDU-CSU invited the SPD in for talks. To get a partnership....you end diluting your 'promises' and end up as much a neutral organization....which your voters shake their heads and  wonder why they really need to vote.

 

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