Friedrich Merz: Virologists are not the government - criticism of the term "Covidioten"

Friedrich Merz criticizes the handling of virologists and sees the term "Covidioten" as "out of place". In the interview he sees difficult times in Germany.

• Friedrich Merz (CDU) sees the term "Covidioten" as out of place.
• In the Corona debate, he wants virologists to be treated less like “pop stars”.
• In the interview, he sees Germany facing difficult times.

Munich - Friedrich Merz (CDU) is critical of the handling of virologists during the coronavirus * pandemic in Germany. A virologist should not be treated like a pop star or confused with the federal government: "Because the government must not only look at the infection process, but must also keep an eye on the restrictions on freedom and always find a way to balance the different interests."

In an interview with t-online, the candidate for the CDU chairmanship criticized the fact that the media had given virologists to explain political decisions. In doing so, they should only give recommendations on how to combat pandemics - the lines between scientific advice and political decision-making should not be blurred.

Coronavirus / Friedrich Merz (CDU): There are political failures with regard to a possible second wave

With regard to a possible " second wave ", Merz sees shortcomings in politics. It is true that dealing with a pandemic is not taught in political classes and much is "trial and error". Nevertheless, it is clear to him: "Certain developments are foreseeable."

We have had a difficult first half of 2020 behind us. But there is always reason to be optimistic. Today I would like to wish you - combined with a warm greeting from my hometown Arnsberg - a great vacation and a relaxing vacation! (FM) pic.twitter.com/Vel6WLwSou

One of the failings of politics is how to deal with returning travelers . Although it had long been clear that many people would travel in July and August, it was too late to talk about how to deal with tests . But he sees an even bigger problem in schools : “We finally need WiFi in every school and an email address for every student, preferably from January 1, 2021,” demands Merz. Here the federal government has to approach the federal states and schools: "Just providing the money is unfortunately not enough in our complicated federal system."

Coronavirus: The term “Covidioten” is “out of place” - Friedrich Merz sees “difficult times” coming in Germany

For Merz, the federal and state governments have reacted well so far, and Germany has come through the crisis well. Merz does not want to rule out a further withdrawal of easing - it still needs good communication of the measures. The term “Covidioten” is “out of place” for Merz in this context. Because many people have not yet had any contact with Corona, he can understand the demonstrators.

As far as the economy is concerned, Merz admits: "Since the financial crisis , I have not been so uncertain about the situation in my judgment." Nonetheless, he sees tough times ahead of Germany - massive declines in the automotive and aviation industries are a particular cause for concern. However, he also sees reason to be courageous when he looks at small and medium-sized companies: "I experience great solidarity there, many people radiate: We can handle it."

(kat / * Merkur.de is part of the Germany-wide Ippen-Digital editors network.)