Merz faces fresh CDU backlash over dismissal of health state secretary Tino Sorge

Published Jul 27, 03:13 PM UTC

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing renewed internal party backlash after dismissing Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Tino Sorge (CDU), without a prior personal conversation. Sorge issued a scathing press release criticizing Merz's communication style, stating the announcement was made first in party committees and before the press rather than in a direct conversation. He expressed hope the decision follows a 'higher logic' beyond individual personnel moves. The dismissal comes amid broader turmoil within the CDU following the controversial replacement of Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, which has caused unrest in state associations. Sorge, a Bundestag member from Saxony-Anhalt where state elections are scheduled for September 6, highlighted his achievements in hospital reform and health insurance stabilization. The reshuffle also includes Nina Warken moving to the Chancellery and Carsten Linnemann becoming the new Health Minister.

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