Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s minority government suffered a decisive defeat in a confidence vote, setting Germany on course for early elections in February. The vote saw 394 lawmakers oppose the government, with only 207 in support and 116 abstaining, falling well short of the 367-vote majority needed.
The political crisis emerged after the Free Democrats (FDP) withdrew from Scholz’s coalition with the Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens over budget disagreements. Following the failed confidence vote, Scholz has approached President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to request the dissolution of the Bundestag.
Steinmeier, who holds the power to call new elections within 60 days, has indicated support for a February 23 election date but emphasized he would not be rushed into a decision. “The constitution and its rules dictate the procedure, not the hectic pace of daily politics,” he told ARD, noting his intention to consult with all parliamentary groups after the holiday season.
The parliamentary debate revealed deep divisions across Germany’s political spectrum. Sarah Wagenknecht of the BSW characterized the government’s tenure as “three years of decline,” while Left Party co-chair Sören Pellmann criticized Scholz’s military support for Ukraine. AfD leader Alice Weidel attacked the government’s economic management, citing industry flight and rising energy costs.
Former Finance Minister Christian Lindner delivered a particularly pointed critique of Scholz’s economic policies, specifically targeting a proposed VAT reduction on foodstuffs. “Prince Carnival may hand out candy on Rose Monday, but the Federal Republic of Germany must not be governed like this,” Lindner declared, calling for dramatic policy changes to address Germany’s economic challenges.
The political upheaval comes at a critical time for Germany, with the country facing economic pressures and ongoing debates about its role in supporting Ukraine. The upcoming election could significantly reshape German domestic and foreign policy at a crucial moment in European politics.
