CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann faced tough questions on the ZDF talk show 'Markus Lanz' regarding Germany's economic challenges.

Linnemann proposed allowing retirees to earn up to 2,000 euros tax-free to boost the workforce.

Host Markus Lanz skeptically responded, 'Are pensioners now saving Germany?' Linnemann also claimed that many view receiving welfare benefits as more attractive than working, drawing criticism from journalist Anna Lehmann for lack of empirical evidence.

The CDU politician emphasized the need for 'tough leadership' in Germany, especially in light of a potential 'Trump 2.0' scenario in the US.

The debate highlighted the complexities of addressing Germany's economic concerns and the differing perspectives on potential solutions.