Germany: SPD’s Pistorius says he will not run for chancellor

Pistorius, who is 64 years old, said that he had informed the party leadership of his decision not to run for chancellor. He expressed his support for Olaf Scholz, the current chancellor, saying that Scholz is “an outstanding chancellor” and the “right candidate” for the position.

The speculation about Pistorius running for chancellor had been rife in recent weeks, with some party leaders and politicians calling on him to replace Scholz as the SPD’s lead candidate. However, Pistorius had never publicly expressed a desire for the nomination, and his decision not to run is seen as a blow to those who had hoped he would take over.

Pistorius’ announcement has ended weeks of speculation about who the SPD would choose as their chancellor candidate ahead of the early election. The move has opened the way for Scholz to launch a long-shot reelection bid, despite being the most unloved chancellor in living memory.

Background

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) is struggling in the polls, and Pistorius’ decision not to run for chancellor has been seen as a setback for the party. However, his announcement has brought an end to the speculation and has allowed Scholz to focus on his reelection bid.

Pistorius’ Statement

In his video message, Pistorius said that he had started working to earn trust from the Bundeswehr military since taking up his post, and that there was still much to do to reform and improve the capabilities of Germany’s military. He expressed his ambition to remain in his current post after the snap election.

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