Update from Berlin #17 | State Elections | Bundestag | Committees

Good morning from Berlin! I’m Carlo Schwamborn, and I’m eager to bring you the latest political updates. In addition to our regular updates from Berlin, we’re going to provide you a quick dive into yesterday’s state elections in Bavaria and Hesse

Starting with Hesse, the CDU emerged notably ahead, securing 34.6% of the vote, which represents a significant 7.6% growth from 2018. Following them, the far-right AfD managed to capture just over 18%. Both the Social Democrats and the Greens experienced substantial losses, receiving around 15% each. These results mean that there are two realistic coalitions: Either the CDU continues their coalition with the Greens, or they switch coalition partners and move forward with the SPD.

Turning our attention to Bavaria, the CSU continues to be the strongest party by far in Bavaria, essentially repeating – though with ever so slight losses – their 2018 performance with 37% of the votes. While the Greens faced a loss, they still spin their results positively as it remains their second-best outcome in the state. Noteworthy is the result of the “Free Voters” who have seen significant gains compared to 2018. The CSU has shown a preference to continue their coalition with the “Free Voters,” but there are murmurs within the party about potentially exploring partnerships with either the Greens or Social Democrats for strategic reasons – especially versus the “Free Voters”.

Now looking at federal politics:

The Bundestag’s upcoming sessions are loaded with pressing matters. They will be delving into the so-called “Growth Opportunity Act” and emphasizing initiatives like decarbonization, the dynamics of banking business relations, and a first reading of the cannabis law. Moreover, the CDU/CSU is set to bring forth new legislative items, with particular focus on reforms in physical therapy training and examining the EU AI Act. In committees, the Traffic Committee will look at various railroad related items and the Climate and Energy Committee will debate Hydrogen, increasing PV-energy production, as well as the Federal Climate Protection Act.

That’s it for this week. However, if there’s anything we can be of assistance to you with, please reach out. And as always: Leave a like and / or a comment and tell your friends and colleagues about us.