In a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the ‘Neheim-Hüstener Program,’ Merz expressed confidence in Germany’s potential for renewal and defended his coalition with the SPD. He acknowledged the perception of stagnation within the country but vowed to counteract this sentiment, asserting that no viable alternatives to the current coalition exist. Merz invoked historical parallels, urging citizens to embrace ambitious future plans, reminiscent of the post-war efforts to rebuild a devastated nation.