In the run-up to Thuringia's election this weekend, political figurehead Jan van Aken has a bold prediction: The Left could easily surpass the projected 20% loss, potentially reaching 20% themselves. This optimistic outlook, shared with RTL and ntv, comes with Bodo Ramelow leading the charge.
Five years ago, The Left celebrated a triumphant 31% in the region. However, polls currently place them at 13-14%. Van Aken, with his eyes on The Left's federal chairmanship position, which has faced turmoil since the Sahra Wagenknecht alliance's split, is cautiously optimistic.
While collaboration with the BSW (Left in Baden-Württemberg) wasn't ruled out, Van Acken voiced reservations about a BSW chief ministership, stating they lack the necessary manpower. By Sunday, we'll know if his assessment is accurate.
For Van Aken, what truly matters is keeping the far-right AfD away from power in Thuringia. He emphasizes the necessity of engaging with all democratic parties, stressing it as a non-negotiable.
Looking ahead to Saxony and Brandenburg's elections, Van Aken's ambition is clear: to "make it into the game." Last week, Van Aken, along with publicist Ines Schwerdtner, announced their bid for The Left's federal leadership, replacing Janine Wissler and Martin Schirdewan. In the recent European elections, The Left managed a disappointing 2.7% nationwide vote.
The lead-up to the election involves strategic discussions, with an emphasis on collaborating with other democratic parties to create a united front against the far-right.
As for the specific strategies Die Linke might employ in Thuringia, the evidence isn't entirely clear. However, we can look to Die Linke's general strategies and successes for insight: unity and preparation, local initiatives, leadership credibility, tactical voting, and addressing social conditions.
[Sources omitted for brevity.]
