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[POLITICS] · Germany · 100 sources

Jens Spahn Resigns as CDU/CSU Fraktion Chief Amid Surrogacy Scandal

Jens Spahn, the head of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, announced his resignation on 18 July 2026 after it became public that he and his husband, journalist Daniel Funke, became parents through a paid surrogate mother in the United States. Surrogacy is illegal in Germany and the CDU/CSU has long opposed any legalisation. The revelation triggered a wave of criticism from within the Union, including calls for Spahn’s resignation by regional CDU leaders such as Daniel Peters and party chairman Friedrich Merz, as well as condemnation from church officials.

Spahn’s own resignation letter to the faction cited a conflict between his personal happiness – becoming a father – and his political responsibilities. He thanked colleagues and emphasised the importance of family. Party bodies, including the CSU and CDU leadership, reiterated their commitment to maintaining the German ban on surrogacy while wishing Spahn “respect and God’s blessing”. The episode has sparked a broader debate on double standards, with Spahn previously having publicly opposed surrogacy legislation.

The controversy remains confined to internal party dynamics; no legislative change has been announced, but the episode marks a notable setback for a senior figure in German politics.

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