SPD Faces Internal Struggle Over Scholz's Candidacy

The German Social Democrats are divided on whether Olaf Scholz or Boris Pistorius should lead the party in the upcoming snap elections.

Olaf Scholz's position as the SPD's candidate for the upcoming February elections is under scrutiny, with significant party members advocating for Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
The SPD's internal debate intensifies as Scholz's popularity declines, with some regional leaders expressing strong support for Pistorius due to his higher favorability ratings.
Despite the controversy, Scholz maintains backing from key figures within the SPD leadership, including party chairs Saskia Esken and Lars Klingbeil.
The party is pressured to make a swift decision, as the collapse of Scholz's coalition has accelerated the election timeline, leaving less than 100 days to prepare.
Pistorius, while popular, has not explicitly declared his candidacy, emphasizing his loyalty to Scholz but not ruling out future possibilities.