Germany’s SPD to launch early campaign

Article reports Germany’s Social Democrats would fire the opening shot in their electoral campaign on the 30 July 2009, two weeks earlier than expected, in a surprise attempt to grab the initiative from Angela Merkel. Report of a FT interview with Karl-Josef Wasserhövel, the SPD campaign manager.

EurActiv, 31.7.09: SPD limousine crashes into German election campaign http://www.euractiv.com/elections/spd-limousine-crashes-german-ele-news-222310

Spiegel Online International, 29.7.09: Social Democrats to Announce Campaign 'Team Steinmeier' http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/0,1518,639055,00.html

ESO: Background information: German SPD adopts sober tone in prudent times http://www.europeansources.info/record/german-spd-adopts-sober-tone-in-prudent-times/

ESO: Background information: Steinmeier launches chancellor bid http://www.europeansources.info/record/steinmeier-launches-chancellor-bid/

Spiegel Online International, 28.7.09: 'Why Should Anyone Still Vote for the SPD?' http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/0,1518,638554,00.html

Deutsche Welle, 30.7.09: Steinmeier unveils election shadow cabinet as SPD plans fightback http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,4529785,00.html

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