Lars Feld, a former economic advisor, and finance secretary Wolf Reuter significantly address the issue of special funds in Germany. They argue that defense spending should not be placed in a shadow budget and assert the continued relevance of the debt brake, a budgetary rule intended to limit government borrowing. Their discussion comes in the wake of a controversial decision made over a year ago by the Bundestag, which saw major parties like the CDU, CSU, SPD, and Greens facilitating an unprecedented debt program to bolster the military and allow for extensive state investments by amending the constitution and effectively undermining the debt brake.

In this context, they highlight the contradictory stance taken during the election campaign, particularly by CDU's chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz, who opposed such measures before the vote but later supported them post-election. This inconsistency raises concerns about the future fiscal responsibility of the government and the implications for citizens who may bear the financial burden of increased borrowing.

Overall, Feld and Reuter's call to uphold the principles of solid state finances emphasizes the need for fiscal discipline despite pressures for spending in areas like defense. Their arguments serve to remind policymakers of the long-term consequences of deviating from prudent fiscal policies, especially in uncertain economic times, arguing for transparency and accountability in how public funds are managed.