Dürr emphasized the necessity of party unity for success, stating that he would not compete against Kubicki, who previously declared his candidacy on the platform X. Meanwhile, FDP defense politician Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann criticized Kubicki’s bid, advocating for leadership from a new generation rather than established figures. The FDP has faced electoral challenges, failing to surpass the five-percent threshold in recent state elections, prompting the federal board’s resignation and further candidacies, including that of NRW leader Höne.