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Friedrich Merz:
"We completely disagree with the traffic light coalition on all essential issues of foreign and security policy, economic and financial policy, labor market policy, domestic and legal policy and, last but not least, asylum and immigration policy," and not in detail , but in principle«
Olaf Scholz:
»In general, you are a very special case. Against the federal government every day, that's fine with her. Below the belt is also your right. But if you are criticized then you are a mimosa. I think anyone who boxes shouldn't have a glass chin. But you have a really nice glass chin, Mr. Merz.”
Unusually harsh words from the Chancellor. It was the head of government's first major appearance since he is said to have promised in mid-January to change from "Faction Olaf" to "Outside Olaf" and to focus on a clearer speech in the future.
The budget should actually be discussed in the general debate. Instead, the Chancellor and opposition leaders used the platform to speak decisively against right-wing extremism:
Olaf Scholz:
“Remigration as a keyword. This is reminiscent of the darkest times in German history. (APPLAUSE) She means what people accuse her of, and that is the bad thing. And that, I think, is really the truth that we have to deal with. Suddenly a word like Dexit comes up. And that is the greatest destruction of wealth that could happen for Europe and for Germany."
Friedrich Merz:
"Our message to you, who sit over there on the far right, is clear and unequivocal: enough is enough. They are not the alternative for Germany. They would be the final decline for Germany - and not just economically, but above all morally. And we will oppose this decline, ladies and gentlemen, with all the strength at our disposal. Your game is now over. Thank you for your attention."