David and Helen are joined by Politico’s chief Europe correspondent Matthew Karnitschnig to explore the consequences of the German elections. Who were the real winners and losers? Are there lessons for centre-left parties in other countries, including the Labour Party in Britain? And what are the choices facing Germany as it decides on its place in an increasingly unstable world? Plus we ask whether this was a Covid election. If not, why not?
Talking Points:
What was surprising about the German elections?
Do campaigns make a difference to election outcomes?
Scholz prevailed because of his experience—he isn’t perceived as a change candidate.
Most German voters wanted change, and yet it is the continuity Merkel candidate who is most likely to become the next chancellor.
The parties seem to believe that their differences are bridgeable.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Further Learning:
Hear more of Matthew on Politico's podcast on European politics, EU Confidential, which he hosts.
And as ever, recommended reading curated by our friends at the LRB can be found here: lrb.co.uk/talking
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