During a recent ZDF summer interview, Söder criticized Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer for suggesting dialogue with the AfD, asserting that such engagement would lead to a significant division within the Union. He emphasized the need for a political approach centered on democracy and the political center, firmly rejecting any association with the AfD, which he described as a threat to democratic values. Additionally, Söder expressed confidence in the federal government’s reform agenda, urging patience from the public as the coalition works to improve its standing amid historically low approval ratings.