Steffen Krach, Berlin’s SPD chief, has urged a significant policy change in response to widespread criticism of the government’s reform package, citing concerns over social equity and public dissatisfaction.

Berlin SPD leader Steffen Krach has called for a major shift in the party’s approach to the reform package introduced by the federal government in July. Speaking in a recent interview, Krach emphasized that the current measures are perceived as unbalanced by a majority of the public, with 80% reportedly viewing the package as heading in the wrong direction. He stressed that the Social Democratic Party must realign its policies to better reflect its commitment to social justice.

One of Krach’s key criticisms centered on proposed cuts to housing benefits, which he argued would disproportionately impact vulnerable groups such as single parents and retirees struggling to afford rent. He described the decision as a misstep and urged lawmakers to reverse the cuts during the parliamentary review process. Krach highlighted the importance of supporting hardworking individuals who rely on these subsidies to maintain their living standards.

The call for change comes amid growing internal dissent within the SPD over the direction of the party under its current leadership. Some members have proposed holding a special party congress in the fall to address leadership concerns and the dual roles of SPD co-chairs Bärbel Bas and Lars Klingbeil, who also serve as government ministers. With key state elections approaching, Krach underscored the need for the party to focus on substantive policy solutions to regain public trust and improve its standing in the polls.