With the Hamburg mayoral election just days away, Peter Tschentscher, the sitting mayor from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), is positioned as the frontrunner for re-election on March 2, 2025. His campaign is characterized by his promises to continue the successful policies of his previous term, securing stability and development for the city.
Tschentscher, who has been at the helm since 2018, has not only been noted for his policies as mayor but also for his background as a medical doctor. His experience as Finance Senator under former mayor Olaf Scholz has shaped his approach to governance, focusing on budgetary prudence and public health measures.
Recent surveys suggest Tschentscher enjoys substantial support, as he aims to establish a continued coalition with the Green Party. Polls indicate the SPD leads with 33 percent support, compared to the CDU’s 18 percent and the Greens' 17 percent. Tschentscher expressed his desire during a TV debate to form a stable government quickly with the Greens post-election. “My goal is to maintain the existing course and achieve stable conditions for our city,” he stated, highlighting the importance of political continuity.
Nevertheless, his campaign is not without challenges. Tschentscher faces backlash over his recent high-profile delegation trip to Asia, which critics argue yielded no tangible benefits for the city. The trip, which reportedly cost taxpayers approximately €129,000, included ten political aides and was aimed at enhancing Hamburg's economic ties with countries like South Korea and Singapore. still, critics assert the expenditures lacked transparency and failed to demonstrate significant outcomes. Sascha Mummenhoff, the head of the Hamburg Taxpayers Association, criticized, "I expect all involved companies to disclose their travel results. Anyone traveling at taxpayers’ expense must be accountable."
The opposition has also ramped up efforts to capitalize on these controversies. Dennis Thering, the CDU candidate, has advocated for the formation of a new coalition, appealing to undecided voters and emphasizing the necessity for fiscal responsibility. He stated, "We must build substantial strength for the CDU to prevent the re-establishment of the Red-Green partnership." Meanwhile, the Green Party emphasizes their role as reformers within the coalition, dismissing speculation of allying with the CDU as misguided.
Despite the criticisms surrounding his Asia trip, Tschentscher maintains support from several prominent figures, including former Minister-President Malu Dreyer, who praised Hamburg's policies—specifically, the city’s dedication to free childcare and comprehensive schooling options. "It is evident for parents here to find daycare, and we offer guaranteed spots without cost," she remarked during the election campaign.
Leading up to the election, the tone of campaigning has been heated. Tschentscher’s characteristics as both a technocrat and someone who can navigate the political scene effectively are significant selling points. He has emphasized a melding of ideals: “Hamburg is strong because we unite safety and freedom, economy and environment, work and family. It’s not about either/or—it’s about both/and,” he said during a rally on the Reeperbahn, addressing over one hundred supporters.
The upcoming clear political climate presents various paths for the future governance of Hamburg. Current predictions hint at retainment of power for the SPD but also open possibilities for other coalitions like one between SPD and CDU. The election could shift local power dynamics significantly, depending on whether Tschentscher solidifies his party’s lead.
Critics and observers will be watching how the election plays out under these conditions. With Tschentscher’s prior track record and the SPD's consistent lead, the mayoral race is undeniably shaping up to be one of the most significant local elections of the year. Polling day will reveal whether Tschentscher's strategies have successfully swayed voters, particularly with concerns still bubbling over the management of city funds and governmental transparency.