Are politicians stingy? Possible. But they shouldn’t have to donate

Friedrich Merz likes to flirt with being middle class. Although he… Plus the 200,000 euros he earns per year as a member of the Bundestag and CDU leader. Compared to the super-rich investor circles in which he moved before his re-entry into the political orbit, he may really have been “just” middle class. But not for the local Sauerland and beyond.

It is perhaps politicians like these who complained about the lack of donations by representatives of the people: “I am of the opinion that people who have a lot of money also have to donate a lot of money, there is no discussion about it. Why shouldn’t a rich politician do the same donate a lot of money? Where is the fairness in that?”

The reason for her tirade was the TV gala “A Heart for Children,” in which Merz and other party leaders were guests. Some donation pants, like those of CSU chairman Markus Söder, contained 2,000 euros, others, like those of SPD leader Lars Klingbeil, contained 500 euros. Actually a considerable amount of money, especially since for the vast majority of politicians it will not be the only event of this kind in these weeks.

However, the top staff present on ZDF are among the top earners. FDP leader, and even the relatively poor one. The vast majority of professional politicians are certainly not suffering, but they can only dream of such income. Or to put it another way: They are simply not rich.

In general, the question arises as to why officials like Olaf Scholz, Robert Habeck or Markus Söder should donate money at all – no matter how important a cause may be. (Generous) gifts are a form of commitment to something for which there is no other way to commit. Due to time constraints or lack of talent. Something that is important to you, or that is important to many others. But that is exactly the job of politicians.

Normally and/or ideally, elected representatives use their labor to do something for the well-being of children, taxpayers, vegetarians or nursing home residents. Unlike normal donors, you also have the opportunity to do this. Wouldn’t it be bizarre if Family Minister Lisa Paus gave away 2,000 private euros for women’s shelters in front of a large audience instead of taking care of their funding through her office?

Apart from that, public fundraising appearances by politicians quickly turn into embarrassing beauty contests: Who donates the most? Those from the Socialists or those from the Liberals? Or maybe the conservative? And for what anyway? With 500 euros for children you will certainly win more hearts than with 2000 euros for train station missions. And, be assured of ingratitude, why does the Chancellor give money to the sea rescuers but nothing to the animal shelter? Does he not like animals?

So is this what politicians are supposed to do? Donate at galas to bask in the glow of philanthropy and voter favor? Clearly: no.