German Chancellor Friedrich Merz under fire over reform agenda and World Cup social‑media post

Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz presented a 34‑measure reform package billed as a “big step forward” for the economy and social security. Economists said the growth impact would be modest and noted a lack of spending cuts. The plan includes tax relief for families and middle‑income earners amounting to roughly €10 billion by 2028, while a higher top rate for the wealthy and a reduced craftsmen‑bonus remain.

After Germany’s loss to Paraguay in the World Cup knockout stage, Merz’s official X‑post praised the team with “What a game” and expressed pride. The message sparked widespread ridicule and was later attributed to a “communication mishap” – a wrong tweet sent from an unintended draft. Merz subsequently issued a follow‑up post stressing unity in defeat.

The controversy prompted a rapid reshuffle of TV programming: ARD inserted a 15‑minute “Brennpunkt” titled “Reformagenda or minimal compromise?” featuring Merz, union leader Frank Werneke, and business lobbyist Christoph Ahlhaus. ZDF’s “Maybrit Illner” also aired a special interview with Merz on the reform package.

Separately, the Axel‑Springer‑Verlag released a private SMS claiming earlier rumors of media‑influencer Mathias Döpfner pressuring Merz to break the “brand wall” and cooperate with the AfD were unfounded, highlighting ongoing speculation around the chancellor’s relationships with major publishers.