Social State Debate: CDU's Labor Wing Calls for More Leadership from Merz - CDU under fire as welfare reform debate exposes leadership rifts ahead of key conference
Dennis Radtke, head of the Christian Democratic Employees’ Association (CDA), has called for stronger leadership from Chancellor Friedrich Merz on welfare state reform. His criticism comes as the CDU prepares for its federal party conference in Stuttgart, where housing and rent policies will take centre stage.
Radtke warned that the party’s current approach risks alienating working people and weakening its public support. Radtke expressed frustration with how the CDU is handling welfare state reforms. He argued that recent proposals on labour and social policy lean too far towards economic liberalism. This shift, he claimed, has harmed the party’s reputation and left its public image out of touch with broader society.
Polls now show the CDU stuck between 24 and 27 percent support. Radtke stressed that the party must improve its communication and ensure working people’s concerns are properly addressed.
While he acknowledged that Merz isn’t expected to draft every detail of reform, Radtke insisted the chancellor must take charge. As party leader, Merz should coordinate and unify proposals into a clear, workable plan. The current debate, Radtke said, lacks coherence and direction.
Housing affordability was another key issue raised. Radtke described it as a ‘social time bomb’ and urged the CDU to push for real improvements. He has high hopes for the upcoming party conference in Stuttgart, where a resolution on rent, housing, and homeownership is set to be discussed. Radtke’s remarks highlight growing pressure on Merz to unify the CDU’s stance on welfare reform. The party’s ability to regain broader appeal may depend on how it addresses housing and social policy in the coming months. The Stuttgart conference will be a critical test of its direction.
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