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Daniel Günther
Photo: Gregor Fischer / dpa
In the power struggle for the Union's candidacy for chancellor, Schleswig-Holstein's Prime Minister Daniel Günther (CDU) calls on his Bavarian counterpart Markus Söder to withdraw.
"The presidium and federal executive board of the CDU with all regional associations and associations clearly spoke out in favor of Armin Laschet last Monday," Günther told SPIEGEL.
“Markus Söder had previously made it clear that in this case he would support the candidacy of the CDU chairman without resentment.
I have no doubt that the word of a CSU chairman and Bavarian Prime Minister applies.
But it is slowly about time to deliver on this clear promise. "
Günther urged Laschet and Söder to quickly resolve the dispute over the top candidate.
"There must be a final discussion between the two party leaders by the end of the week," said the CDU country chief.
Günther continued: "The CDU of course respects that the elected party executive decides for the CSU." Conversely, however, he expects the CSU boss "to respect the decisions of the CDU leadership elected by the grassroots."
A "fearful look at current survey values" is not sufficient for a decision of this importance.
Günther's CDU official colleague in Saxony-Anhalt, Reiner Haseloff, had previously expressed himself differently.
Haseloff called for more weight to be given to the opponents' popularity ratings when deciding whether to run for chancellor.
"Unfortunately, now it's all about the tough question of power: with whom do we have the best chances?" Haseloff told SPIEGEL.
“It's not about personal sympathy, trust or character traits.
It doesn't help if, according to the general opinion, someone is absolutely fit for chancellor but does not achieve this office because the voters will not let him. "
Günther now countered: "Armin Laschet enjoys the full confidence of the CDU and a lot of sympathy also in the CSU." It is time "that we start the election campaign with him at the top."
flo / phw