The election campaign in Baden-Württemberg is entering its decisive phase. CDU leader Friedrich Merz, during rallies in southwestern Germany, called for mobilization, warning against voting for smaller parties. He also proposed a controversial reform of the pension system, linking benefits to length of employment. The incumbent state premier, Winfried Kretschmann of the Greens, is countering the attacks, accusing the Christian Democrats of recycling existing solutions.

Pension System Reform

Friedrich Merz proposed linking the retirement age to the total length of professional employment.

CDU Election Strategy

The Christian Democratic leader warns against voting for the AfD and FDP, arguing that it strengthens the Greens' position.

Premier Kretschmann's Response

The incumbent state premier rejects the CDU's criticism, considering their proposals to be derivative of the government's existing actions.

The final stage of the campaign for the Baden-Württemberg state parliament was dominated by the presence of the federal CDU leader, Friedrich Merz, who is trying to break the Greens' long-standing dominance in this region. Merz, speaking to activists and voters, adopted a sharply confrontational course, using 'blood and tears' rhetoric in the context of necessary economic reforms. His main message became a warning to voters considering support for the AfD (blue) or FDP (yellow). According to the Christian Democratic leader, voting for these parties will ultimately lead to the continuation of Green-led governments, which he summed up with the slogan that whoever chooses these colors will 'wake up on Monday with the Greens'. A key element of the social program that Merz presented during the campaign finale is a proposal for a deep reform of the pension system. The CDU leader advocated linking the retirement age to the actual duration of professional activity, which is intended to be a response to the demographic crisis and labor market shortages. This proposal met with an immediate reaction from political opponents. Winfried Kretschmann, the incumbent state premier, distanced himself from the CDU's postulates, ironically stating that many of the Christian Democrats' 'new' ideas have long been implemented by his cabinet. Kretschmann emphasizes the stability and effectiveness of the current governance model, which combines care for the environment with the interests of the strong industry in this region. Baden-Württemberg, a traditional bastion of conservatism, has been governed by Winfried Kretschmann since 2011, the first Green Party state premier in German history. Elections in this state are considered a key test of the political mood ahead of the federal elections to the Bundestag. The atmosphere in southwestern Germany remains tense, as polls indicate a close race between the two main forces. Merz is trying to mobilize the hardcore conservative electorate, focusing on security and economic competitiveness, while the Greens appeal for a continuation of the proven course. The outcome of Sunday's vote will have a direct impact on Friedrich Merz's position as a candidate for chancellor, confirming or weakening his mandate to lead the entire German right in the upcoming election cycle. „Wer blau oder gelb wählt, wacht am Montag grün auf.” (Whoever votes blue or yellow will wake up on Monday with green.) — Friedrich Merz

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