Read the video transcript here arrow up arrow down
Olaf Scholz, SPD candidate for Chancellor
"Maybe at the end: I'm happy about the nomination and I want to win."
Olaf Scholz becomes the SPD's candidate for chancellor. This was announced by the leadership duo of the Social Democrats in Berlin, together with the finance minister of the Union-led federal government.
Olaf Scholz, SPD candidate for chancellor
"We think that someone who has ruled for so long must also be given the opportunity to renew the opposition. We believe that we will achieve well over 20 percent and that we will improve our result considerably Nobody is out of reach, but we have the chance to win this political competition, supported by the vote of the voters, and thus to ensure that Germany remains social in the coming decade. "
Allegedly, the decision for Scholz was made weeks ago. Nothing has leaked. For the leadership duo of the party, proof of the unity of the Social Democrats.
Olaf Scholz is assigned to the right wing of the party. Hamburg's former First Mayor has held political offices for decades, the SPD relies on its reputation, on continuity, not on renewal.
Saskia Esken, SPD chairwoman
"We also know that these decisions represent an unusual turn for many in the party, perhaps also outside the party. Especially those whom we surprise, we would like to ask for their trust in this common path Seriousness of the corona situation dictates that we do not continue to stage our candidate selection for months and artificially delay the decision. "
Norbert Walter-Borjans, SPD chairman
"And I believe that we are giving something for us together and for the country at least as a signal that people can count on us and that we are reliable."
Olaf Scholz, SPD candidate for Chancellor
"Everyone remembers all those who clapped for the Corona heroes and sometimes still do. But the heroes have always had the strange feeling that when this Corona crisis is over is, everything will be forgotten again. And that's why we say: It can't be like that in any case. Respect and recognition is also expressed in decent money and salary. "
And then Scholz and the management duo outline the goals with which they want to win the federal election: a strong welfare state, the climate-friendly restructuring of the country, Europe. Suddenly an election campaign - the political opponent seems taken by surprise.
Markus Söder, Prime Minister of Bavaria
"What I generally find bad about the timing and statements is that we are now concerned with every decision in the Federal Cabinet that it is solely from an election point of view. I would have suggested we start very late with election campaigns next year. Just like the last few times. People cannot just see posters and election campaign events for the next year and a half. They want solutions. "
Olaf Scholz, SPD candidate for Chancellor
"We govern and we will continue to do so. The election campaign won't start today, even if we prepare well for next year's election."
