This article examines the political approach of Friedrich Merz, highlighting his tendency to make significant announcements that often fail to deliver meaningful outcomes. The recent EU reform summit in Bilzen, Belgium, serves as a backdrop to point out the gap between ambitious declarations and the reality of political discord amongst leaders. Despite the high hopes for effective reform, the gathering resulted more in disagreement than concrete plans, mirroring a broader pattern in contemporary politics where substantial promises frequently lead to minimal results.

Merz's strategy includes making large promises ahead of key events, yet he is portrayed not as the leader of this trend but rather as a participant among many. The author references Donald Trump, who is noted for a similar style of frequent announcements with little follow-through, suggesting that this approach to politics has become increasingly common. This comparison aims to illustrate how political communication often prioritizes the spectacle of announcements over the sustained effort required for successful governance.

The implications of this political style are significant, raising questions about accountability and the effectiveness of leadership in achieving tangible change. Voter disillusionment may grow from a repeated cycle of unmet expectations, prompting a need for politicians like Merz to not only announce bold reforms but to also cultivate the resolve necessary to follow through. The article calls for a reflection on new political strategies that can bridge the gap between promise and performance.