During a discussion hosted by regional newspapers, Kretschmer stressed the importance of immediate action from the federal government, urging it to move beyond planning to implementation. Schwesig highlighted the necessity of recognizing early warning signs from Eastern Germany, asserting that developments in the East will impact the West. The leaders also proposed differing approaches to minimum wage reform, with Schwesig advocating for a tax-free minimum wage and Kretschmer suggesting state subsidies to alleviate employer costs.