In Politics, nothing is ever "ruled out". IIRC a "coalition" with the PDS was also ruled out at the time, that didn't stop them from accepted the "quiet" support then, and probably won't now...
Oskar knows he has no chance to actually win, and just being a thorn in everybodies side, although in character, is not really his goal. If he quietly supports a left leaning coalition government, he will have far MORE power in shaping the future of Germany than if the CDU/CSU + FDP (+???) where to be in power. A Grand Coalition is also not something he would be wanting - thus, I believe he will support an Red-green coalition. Schröder is so power hungry, he almost certainly will entertain such an offer - especially when the base pushes for it.
PS - I sincerly hope that I am WRONG!!!!!
You are wrong. The executive committee of the SPD has decided to talk with all parties except the Linkspartei.PDS about a future government. Maybe in four years this is an option, but not now.
> PS - I sincerly hope that I am WRONG!!!!! <
I hope so too - and I think you are! What happens in east Germany states is quite different to what's acceptable at the Federal level.
Oskar will support neither a red-green coalition or a grand coalition, especially as both will continue reforms, albeit at different speeds and with different emphasis. The SPD have also said they will not form a govt. that will depend on being "tolerated" by the Left party.