Günther Urges Black-Red Coalition to Deliver on Reforms, Backs Merz Amid Leadership Speculation

Günther stressed that the obligation applies equally to all three coalition partners. 'Das gelte für SPD, CDU und CSU gleichermaßen,' he stated, underlining that the parties must work together rather than assign blame.

Speculation About a Chancellor Swap

The remarks come at a time when media reports have raised questions about internal Union considerations over whether Merz could be replaced by another politician given the difficult situation facing the coalition. The name of North Rhine-Westphalia state premier and CDU state chairman Hendrik Wüst was mentioned in the context of a possible chancellor replacement.

Günther firmly rejected the notion that Merz has an authority problem. Asked directly whether the chancellor faced such an issue, he replied: 'Nein, überhaupt gar nicht' — no, not at all.

He described the debate about a chancellor swap as 'ein bisschen absurd' — a bit absurd — and said it appeared to have been imposed from outside rather than arising from within the coalition. From his perspective, the speculation has no truth content.

Reaction from the Chancellor's Circle

The rumors were sharply rejected from the chancellor's circle, with a statement saying the idea shows a 'gefährlichen Lust an der Zündelei' — a dangerous desire for arson. Günther said he found it unhelpful that people allegedly from Merz's circle had commented on such speculation, calling it 'nicht hilfreich.'

Günther expressed disbelief that anyone would continue to fuel the discussion. 'Ich kann mir beim besten Willen nicht vorstellen, dass es wirklich jemanden gibt, der so unklug ist, damit auch eine Debatte weiter am Laufen zu halten,' he said, meaning he cannot imagine anyone being so unwise as to keep such a debate going.

The intervention by Günther, who is a prominent figure within the CDU, represents a significant public show of support for Merz at a time when the coalition faces pressure to advance its legislative agenda. His call for delivery on reforms signals impatience within the party ranks with internal distractions.

Coalition Under Pressure

The black-red coalition, formed after the 2025 federal election, has been navigating a challenging political landscape with economic headwinds and policy disagreements among the partners. Günther's remarks underscore the urgency felt by state-level leaders for the federal government to demonstrate effectiveness.

Earlier, CDU politician Jens Spahn had dismissed the reports about a possible chancellor replacement as 'Unsinn' — nonsense. The combined pushback from senior party figures suggests an effort to close ranks around Merz and shift attention back to governance.