Chancellor Olaf Scholz has officially kicked off the campaigning phase for the Social Democratic Party (SPD) as they gear up for the 2025 Federal elections. The event took place in Wolfsburg, accompanied by various prominent party figures and amid growing concerns within the party due to dismal polling numbers. With just 37 days until the elections, the SPD finds itself lagging at around 15-16 percent, significantly behind the opposition Union party, which boasts over 30 percent.
This year's campaign launch is particularly significant, especially considering the SPD’s drop to fourth place behind not only the Union party but also the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which stands near 20 percent. "The SPD's polling figures are disturbing," acknowledged Melanie Meinecke, who attended the event along with fellow members Stefanie Hufmann and her daughter Ann-Ellen. They initially joined the SPD four years ago with hopes of success following 16 years under former Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Wearing red SPD hoodies, the trio expressed their worries over the rising influence of the AfD and the potentially detrimental effects on democracy. While they feel well-prepared for election activities—reporting no stress from opposition tactics—they couldn't shake off their anxiety over the SPD’s performance. “We are increasingly concerned about democracy,” said Hufmann.
The event was also marked by speeches from various party leaders, underlining the need for solidarity and support for the industry. After supportive preliminary speeches from figures like Niedersachsen's Minister President Stephan Weil and SPD Co-Chair Lars Klingbeil, Chancellor Scholz took to the stage with his typical reserved demeanor.
Though not known for his oratory skills, Scholz efficiently outlined the core aspects of the SPD’s election strategy, proposing incentives like a 10-percent bonus for companies investing domestically and capping electricity prices. His commitment to providing continued support for Ukraine also received considerable applause from the audience.
Despite this encouragement, there were voices of skepticism from within the crowd. A physiotherapist, who wished to remain nameless, expressed uncertainty about voting for the SPD again after being disappointed by Scholz's leadership. She emphasized the severe issues of job losses and companies relocating overseas, reflecting sentiments shared among her peers.
Notably, former Mayor Klaus Mohrs also shared his perspective on the current political climate. Mohrs believes there's still time for the SPD to recover lost percentages before the elections but urges immediate action. He cautioned against the growing dominance of the AfD, making it clear he never expected democracy to feel threatened.
Comparing the current situation to the SPD’s past successes, the party officials encouraged optimism. Klingbeil, from Hildesheim, reminded the audience of the party's landslide victory in the Niedersachsen state elections of 2022 which saw them polling consistently between 30 and 35 percent. “Just like we did it then, we will do it now on the national level,” he asserted, discounting the current malaise. This optimism, though, seems to clash significantly with the reality of recent polling.
At the same time, the SPD’s increasing concern about extremist groups was evident throughout the event. Party members stressed the importance of maintaining democratic values. "We face many challenges, including extremism, and must respond with determination," emphasized Ludwig Paulus, chairman of the Peißenberg SPD at another party event held at the same time as the Wolfsburg campaign launch.
This dual focus on local and national challenges reflects the SPD's broader strategy as it approaches the elections. The dialogue surrounding local community issues, alongside national concerns like industry support and democratic stability, portrays the SPD not only as reactive but also proactive—seeking to address pressing issues directly affecting voters.
Despite pressures from competing parties and low polling, party leaders continue to call for engagement among voters, urging them to encourage others to uphold democratic values against rising extremism. Bundestag candidate Clemens Meikis encapsulated this sentiment, urging party members, "Vote democratically and help prevent a rightward shift. This election is more than just another vote; it's pivotal for our future."
Meanwhile, Maria Noichl, European Parliament member, defended the efforts of the coalition government, claiming significant strides have been made. She humorously likened coalition dynamics to musical harmony, emphasizing the need for collaborative effort among parties. Yet, she also pointed out the challenges faced due to differing roles within the coalition. She called urgently for societal solidarity, underlining, "We need bridge builders, not agitators, especially when the stakes are so high.”
The broader narrative of the SPD’s launch and speeches paints a picture of the complex challenges facing the party as it repositions itself amid calculative polling pressures and societal concerns. The SPD must not only connect with current voters but also reclaim the narrative around its mission, particularly addressing fears about the future and standing firm against increasing extremist sentiments.
With elections on the horizon, the SPD’s capacity to inspire confidence will be tested. They find themselves at a pivotal juncture where their approach to addressing democratic values, industry support, and socio-political concerns will determine their fate as they strive toward revitalizing party spirits and future electoral successes.