In the heart of Thuringia, the city of Jena has been making waves, particularly in its second-largest city, where Mayor Thomas Nitzsche triumphantly clinched re-election in June. Nitzsche, an FDP member, speaks candidly about his governing style, "I don't align with party lines, but I operate in an overly partisan manner," he admits in an interview on ntv's "Climate Lab." He sees the lack of a council majority as an advantage, explaining, "Then you're immediately seeking compromises and even sway to the left sometimes."
Jena, a city of roughly 100,000 inhabitants, boasts a unique blend of urban and natural elements. The bustling city center is peppered with greenery, and it's home to influential scientific institutions and a robust economy. Both sectors work harmoniously, contributing to Jena's economic prosperity and educational success. Nearly a third of the population holds an academic degree, adding to the city's vibrancy.
"Many say Jena is the perfect size," Nitzsche shares. "It's not as large as Berlin, Cologne, or Munich, but it's still big enough to offer everything you could want in sports, culture, and more. Yet, it's small enough to remain intimate, almost everyone knows everyone else."
As an FDP representative, Nitzsche defeated the Green candidate Kathleen Lützkendorf in the June runoff election. The explanation for this difference, he believes, lies in his non-partisan approach to governing.
In an often-partisan political landscape, Nitzsche governs with an aim to serve as many residents as possible. To maintain harmony and stability, he often compromises and renounces his positions, even when it goes against his party's principles. "Recognizing the political successes of other parties fosters cooperation in governing," he explains.
Does this mean he seeks alliances with the AfD, a political party often shrouded in controversy? Nitzsche's stance on the matter is clear: while it is feasible to work with the AfD at the local level, he sees no need to cooperate at a higher level. "If a decision depends on their votes, the decision should stand," he clarifies.
The focus of the current election campaign remains on the AfD, with negative messages capturing more attention than positive ones. Nitzsche is not immune to this, but he believes addressing the underlying causes of fear is essential. For him, these fears are often tied to transitions, like the switch to electric cars or heat pumps, which people struggle to afford.
Jena, however, has managed to navigate these challenges with less public backlash. By communicating the need for change effectively and working collaboratively with residents, the city has managed to implement policies while preserving a sense of community. It is a delicate balance that requires sensitivity, transparency, and a commitment to the well-being of Jena's residents.
In the end, Nitzsche's non-partisan governing style has proven to be a successful tactic in the often-divisive world of politics. By focusing on the needs of the community and embracing a collaborative approach, he has been able to bridge political divides and lead his city toward a brighter future.
