Markus Söder Re-elected as CSU Leader Amid Internal Challenges and Firm Political Stances

Markus Söder was re-elected as chairman of the Christian Social Union (CSU) at the party conference in Munich with 83.6% of the votes, marking his lowest approval rating to date compared to 96.8% in 2021 and 87.6% in 2019. This reduced support has raised questions about his leadership strength within the party.

In his speech, Söder highlighted Bavaria's critical role in Germany's success and criticized the financial redistribution system that imposes a burden on the state. He firmly ruled out any cooperation with the far-right AfD, describing them as a threat to Germany's democratic values. A recent poll ahead of the March local elections showed the CSU with 40% support while the AfD stood at 19%. Söder also referenced lessons from 2015 to stress opposition to migration into social welfare systems.

Controversially, Söder announced the cancellation of the Kinderstartgeld program, which provided financial support for families; instead, he vowed to redirect funds towards childcare financing, a decision that has generated public backlash.

Further marking his political stance, Söder expressed anger towards criticism of Israel and proposed that Germany boycott the Eurovision Song Contest. This move reflects growing tensions in Germany around its position on Israel and underscores Söder's engagement on international issues.

Söder's mixed mandate and recent policy decisions underscore ongoing challenges as he leads the CSU in a politically complex period heading into upcoming elections.