Prominence and Distinction as a Strategy - That's Cem Özdemir - Özdemir's Greens surge ahead in Baden-Württemberg's pivotal election
Cem Özdemir has led Baden-Württemberg's Greens to a strong showing in the state election, with early projections placing them ahead of the CDU. The result puts the party in a key position to shape the next government in Stuttgart. Özdemir's campaign focused on his pragmatic approach and personal connection with voters.
Özdemir's political career began in 1994 when he became Germany's first MP of Turkish descent. He later served as federal co-chair of the Greens from 2008 to 2018. His path wasn't always smooth—after resigning from the Bundestag in 2005 amid scandals, he spent time in the United States before returning via the European Parliament in 2004. By 2013, he was back in the Bundestag.
In Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition, Özdemir holds dual roles as agriculture and education minister. This position made him a central figure in recent farmer protests over diesel subsidies. Despite his federal experience, he had little state-level background before running for minister-president in Baden-Württemberg.
His campaign strategy relied on a personal touch. Dark green posters featured only his face, reinforcing his image as a prominent yet approachable leader. Özdemir and incumbent leader Winfried Kretschmann positioned themselves as natural successors, while appearances with former Green Boris Palmer signalled distance from the federal party. Often sharing his rags-to-riches story—struggling in school before earning his university qualification through adult education—he connected with voters on a personal level.
With the Greens nearly certain to join the next state government, a CDU-Greens coalition now appears the most likely outcome.
The Greens' strong performance in Baden-Württemberg marks a turning point for the party in the state. Özdemir's leadership and campaign tactics have secured their influence in Stuttgart's next government. The election result sets the stage for coalition talks, with the CDU likely as their main partner.
