Green Party's Brantner defends Özdemir amid CDU's Hagel controversy
Green Party politician Franziska Brantner has weighed in on recent political disputes and coalition talks ahead of Germany's upcoming elections. She addressed controversies involving CDU member Manuel Hagel while expressing strong support for her party's co-leader, Cem Özdemir.
Brantner dismissed claims that her party was targeting Hagel over his 2018 remarks about schoolgirls, calling the resurfaced interview a public matter rather than a private one. Hagel himself admitted the comments were a mistake, adding that his wife had reprimanded him at the time. The CDU took no formal action, and the party continued to back him on unrelated matters, such as a recent school visit.
She also defended Özdemir's earlier statement that anyone can make errors, reinforcing her confidence in his leadership during coalition negotiations. Brantner described the talks as a chance for Germany's future but warned against simply replicating past election strategies.
Her broader political mission, she explained, centres on helping people realise their full potential. At the same time, she stressed that decisions must prioritise the country's needs over party interests.
The Green Party remains focused on coalition discussions, with Brantner positioning Özdemir as a capable leader. Meanwhile, the CDU has not addressed Hagel's 2018 comments beyond his personal apology. The political landscape in Baden-Württemberg now shifts toward the 2026 state election.
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