BERLIN

Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) on Monday nominated Chancellor Olaf Scholz as their candidate for the upcoming federal election, despite polls showing his approval ratings at historic lows.

Party co-chairs Lars Klingbeil and Saskia Esken announced the unanimous decision following an executive meeting in Berlin, expressing confidence in Scholz's leadership through what they called unprecedented challenges facing Germany.

"Olaf Scholz is the right chancellor for Germany, especially in the current situation facing our country, Europe, and the world," Esken said, noting that Scholz's proven track record of handling significant responsibilities demonstrates he is the best candidate for this position.

Klingbeil emphasized that Chancellor Scholz has successfully led the country through serious crises over the past four years and has demonstrated prudence and steadfastness amid major domestic and international challenges.

"We look forward to this election campaign. It will be a tough and close election. With just under 90 days left as of today, we can say the SPD is ready - we will fight," he said.

Recent polls show Scholz's approval ratings have plummeted to just 14% — the lowest for any post-war chancellor — reflecting public dissatisfaction with internal strife among coalition partners and their handling of economic challenges.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-way coalition with the Greens and liberal Free Democrats (FDP) collapsed earlier this month due to intense disputes concerning economic policy and the government's spending plans. The SPD and the main opposition Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) have reached an agreement to expedite parliamentary procedures to hold early elections on Feb. 23, 2025.