With the February 2025 Bundestag election on the horizon, Hubert Aiwanger leads the Free Voters party as they gear up for what many view as their best chance to enter the federal parliament. Known for his direct and straightforward approach, Aiwanger emphasized the urgency of their campaign, calling for local political representation to reshape Berlin. "We want to transform the Bundestag to be the largest town hall of the Republic," he stated, illustrating the Free Voters’ commitment to municipal issues at the heart of their campaign platform.
During the party’s candidate selection meeting held recently in Amberg, Aiwanger was chosen as the leading candidate with overwhelming support, receiving 99 percent of the votes. Following him on the list are notable local leaders including Indra Baier-Müller from Oberallgäu and Peter Dreier from Landshut, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles should the party secure the three direct mandates necessary to gain seats.
The Free Voters’ platform is nothing short of ambitious. Aiwanger outlined his vision, critiquing what he perceives as the legislative disconnect experienced by regular citizens. He claimed, "Berlin lacks the fundamental training of local politics" and expressed urgency for action, saying, "It is unbearable how Berlin has failed to meet its communal responsibilities." This focus on local governance resonates with constituents who feel overlooked by the mainstream narrative dictated by larger political parties.
Despite the enthusiasm, the party faces considerable hurdles. Recent polls conducted by Bayerischer Rundfunk suggested the Free Voters hover only around four percent popularity, significantly below the five percent threshold needed to secure Bundestag representation via proportional representation. This leaves Aiwanger’s team with little margin for error as they prepare for what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive election.
To address these challenges, Aiwanger has articulated a call for practical solutions. He highlighted the need for business-friendly policies to stimulate the economy, emphasizing the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. He declared, "We’ve turned from the economic powerhouse of Europe to the 'sick man of Europe,'" calling for tax reductions and startup promotions to rejuvenate the local economy.
Aiwanger's rhetoric has also included sharp criticisms of the political climate, particularly aimed at the coalition partner, the CSU. He accused them of engaging in unnecessary political attacks, stating, "Instead of cooperating, they have resorted to character attacks under the belt." He underscored the need for unity among coalition partners, asserting, "There is enough governmental work for both sides to accomplish." This tension highlights the increasingly combative atmosphere as both parties jockey for political dominance.
While reflecting on the current situation of refugees, Aiwanger proposed leveraging their capabilities to fill labor shortages, stating, "Anyone who arrives from Syria or Afghanistan would be willing to carry plates if the rewards are worthwhile." This pragmatic stance intends to present refugees as potential assets to the economy, though he firmly stated his views on crime-related issues among migrants, advocating for swift deportations of convicted offenders.
With the campaign gaining momentum, tensions continue to mount between Aiwanger and CSU leadership. He described the criticism he faces as unconstructive, particularly focusing on recent disagreements over the support of local startups seeking state assistance. His warning to the CSU has not gone unnoticed: "If they persist, we will hold their members accountable publicly for their failures."
Nonetheless, Aiwanger remains optimistic about the direction of the Free Voters, confident they will find pathways to achieve their electoral goals. He reiterated to supporters, "We are not just here to participate; we are here to win and represent our local needs at the federal level. Forward to Berlin!"
With just months to go until election day, the Free Voters’ coalition may determine whether Aiwanger’s vision can outpace the criticisms and challenges they face. The stakes are high for both Aiwanger’s aspirations and the longstanding structure of Bavarian politics.
