Wolfgang Kubicki, the Vice Chairman of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) of Germany, recently expressed optimism about his party's future, forecasting a significant improvement as the new year approaches. According to Kubicki, the FDP is poised to rebound from recent polling figures, which have placed the party between 3% and 5%. He emphatically stated, "We will be double-digit," indicating his strong belief in the party's potential to gain wider public support.
Speaking to the magazine Stern, Kubicki commented on the shifting political dynamics as many voters reassess their choices with the advent of the new year. He articulated his view of the political climate, stating, "The old is bygone, it will be settled; they focus on what is to come." This reflects his belief in the cyclical nature of voter sentiment, where public opinion can dramatically change after significant events.
Despite the recent challenges faced by the FDP, particularly following the abrupt collapse of the coalition government led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Kubicki remains hopeful. He suggested the formation of new coalitions could be beneficial. He raised the possibility of what he termed a "Deutschlandkoalition," comprised of the CDU, SPD, and FDP itself, stating pointedly, "Then Olaf Scholz will not be there anymore," implying strong leadership changes are necessary if the SPD's fortunes continue to decline.
Kubicki highlights his reluctance to work with the Greens, noting, "The ideological distance has grown so thick... I will not work with the Greens for the rest of my political career." This marks a clear delineation between the FDP's liberal values and the Greens' approach, which he believes contradicts the principle of individual responsibility.
He articulated dissatisfaction with the previous coalition arrangement and expressed regret about not ending it sooner, stating, "If we wait until September 2025, the FDP is at three percent..." His insistence on proactive changes indicates his commitment not only to the party's revival but also to enforcing accountability and ensuring relevance.
Aside from the future of the FDP, Kubicki did not shy away from addressing recent tragedies and political failures. Following the tragic events resulting from the Christmas market attack, he stated, "Mrs. Faeser must now face very unpleasant questions," directing criticism toward Nancy Faeser for her handling of security matters. Kubicki underscored the necessity for political responsibility, noting, "There is always someone accountable for official failures in a legal state. I cannot believe such events would happen without personal consequences." This statement demonstrates his broader concern for accountability, which could resonate well with voters who feel disillusioned by political missteps.
Overall, Wolfgang Kubicki presents himself as not just a politician forecasting electoral success but as one advocating for serious introspection and reform within his party and the broader political arena. His vision for the FDP hinges on renewed support and the forging of new alliances, all aimed at positioning the party favorably as it approaches upcoming elections. With the sentiment around political dynamics constantly shifting, his confidence may just be the rallying cry needed to ignite supporters and reclaim lost ground for the FDP.
