The SPD itself apparently cannot quite believe that it could perform the miracle on Sunday of passing the Union.
After Volker Bouffier has already looked into the abyss and as a precaution registered the claim of the runner-up to form a government for the CDU, the SPD chairman Norbert Walter-Borjans is now blowing the same horn.
In both cases the timing has been chosen somewhat boldly;
Dealing with a defeat so close to the election is not motivating.
But it stabilizes the outlook.
Above all, it reminds voters of what this election is about: not about the choice of the Chancellor, but about the starting position of the parties in forming coalitions.
The Chancellor is not chosen by the voters, but by the German Bundestag.
The SPD has the advantage that nobody is surprised in its case.
In the 1970s, the SPD gained experience in moving from the second row, with the help of a coalition partner, past the far stronger Union into the Chancellery.
With this choice, she benefits from the fact that she shouldn't sag again after many crashes and that will sell as a success.
It looks different for the CDU and CSU.
As a runner-up, you would have greater difficulties in claiming the government contract for yourself, which would be tantamount to a debacle.
However, it is not moral questions that are decisive, but rather: with whom?
If Armin Laschet finds two partners who can help him gain a majority, they will already know what they are doing and why they do not trust Olaf Scholz.
It depends on the FDP and the Greens.
If they do not find each other, Laschet will be on the sidelines one way or another.
Even in second place, Scholz would still have the chance to form a coalition with the Greens and the Left Party.
Walter-Borjans indirectly admitted that Scholz would not let this option be taken away.
Is it a surprise that Kevin Kühnert spoke up at the same time?
He smells red-green-red morning air, in which Olaf Scholz would be Chancellor, but would not have much more to say.