On February 5, 2025, the popular talk show Markus Lanz returns to the ZDF network with another compelling lineup of guests and topical discussions. Scheduled to air at 11:15 PM CET, the show continues its tradition of tackling pressing political issues, particularly with the Bundestag elections drawing near.
Among the featured guests this week are esteemed figures from politics and journalism, each bringing unique insights to the table: Elmar Theveßen, the ZDF correspondent based in Washington, will provide viewers with expert commentary on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent visit to the United States and former President Donald Trump's controversial declaration. Trump has stated, "The USA will take control of the Gaza Strip," stirring significant debate among political analysts and the public alike.
Joining Theveßen will be Gregor Gysi, a prominent politician from the Left Party, who is set to share his thoughts on U.S. political policy under Trump's leadership and the current migration debate gripping Germany. "This is about how the Left Party wants to enter the Bundestag," Gysi remarked, hinting at strategies his party is employing as they prepare for the upcoming elections.
The show will also feature Tino Chrupalla, co-chairman of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He is expected to address the internal dynamics affecting the Bundestag, particularly why colleague Friedrich Merz is, as Chrupalla puts it, "in his own trap." This highlights the political maneuvering and challenges facing various parties as they vie for attention leading up to the elections.
Antje Höning, the economy journalist for the Rheinische Post, rounds off the guest list. Her expertise will shed light on the significance of immigration for the German economy and discuss necessary steps to address the looming recession. "The significance of immigration for the German economy cannot be overstated," she will advocate, as economic recovery remains at the forefront of national discourse.
Further dissection of party strategies leading up to the elections will be provided by Nikolaus Blome, another noted journalist. He will analyze political positioning as parties gear up for the Bundestag elections and explain what challenges the parliamentary democracy is likely to face. Blome's observations will frame the upcoming political contests within the broader scope of German and international politics.
The atmosphere of Markus Lanz is known for sparking intense discussions and bringing forward key insights from seasoned political figures, and this episode is set to follow suit. Notably, the show has become renowned for engaging political commentary and attracting high-profile guests from diverse backgrounds, making it one of the most watched programs on German television.
The show originated on ZDF back in 2008 and has since become synonymous with incisive political debate and public engagement with current affairs. It airs three times weekly—Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays—drawing significant viewership. The thematic structure of each episode often entails various talking points relevant to the current political climate, allowing for not just dialogue but also audience interaction later on.
For viewers unable to catch the live show, episodes are available for streaming shortly after airing on the ZDF media library, ensuring accessibility for fans of political discourse.
Tune in tonight, February 5, at 11:15 PM, to catch all the discussions and insights as Markus Lanz navigates these complex political waters with his guests.