Upper House

“We are investigating some very unusual voting patterns and expect this election to head to a recount, one way or another.”— Scott Gessler, a lawyer for Lauren Boebert’s campaign, in a news release about the vote tally.

“But when people at demonstrations say, ‘We don’t want to go to the front and die in a war,’ all I can say is: We want exactly the same thing.”— Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, speaking about young people’s concerns at demonstrations against a possible return to conscription.

“She is insinuating the supposed power of the Central Council of Jews over German politics. That plays into age-old antisemitic conspiracy narratives. It makes me wonder whether she herself may harbor antisemitic resentments.”— Ron Dekel, chair of the Jewish Student Union of Germany, said this to the Jüdische Allgemeine about Claudia Roth’s remarks.

Members of other parliamentary groups could bring me into office by abstaining—but then make me fail on important proposals. And that would also jeopardize the AfD’s success nationwide. We have a historic opportunity now, and I can’t put it at risk for the sake of a position. That’s why I have to weigh my options.

— Ulrich Siegmund explained to the Magdeburger Volksstimme why he is keeping his options open in the minister-president election.

“You led the worst-run administration under the worst president in history. Enjoy your place in history.”— Writer and activist Charlotte Clymer posted this in reply to Susie Wiles’ goodbye message on X.

“I can very well imagine that in 2027 we will elect a woman as Federal President for the first time in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany. That would be good.”— Friedrich Merz made this remark in August 2025, during the German federal government's open day, about electing a woman to the office of Federal President.

I’m sorry; I was out of line in my tone. I deleted my comment and have apologized publicly and personally to Mr. Ibrahimkhil for my choice of words.

— Manfred Pentz apologized after criticism of his Instagram comment; the statement was conveyed by his spokesperson, Christian Stadtfeld.

“Secretary Hegseth has acted in a manner contrary to his trust as Secretary of Defense and subversive of constitutional government, to the great prejudice of the cause of law and justice, and to the manifest injury of the people of the United States of America.”— Thomas Massie read the statement from his impeachment resolution against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.