"Existenzkampf" - How the Thuringian SPD fights for its themes - Thuringia’s SPD grapples with divisions ahead of critical 2024 election
Thuringia’s SPD is facing internal tensions as it prepares for the 2024 election. The party, currently polling near the five-percent threshold, has positioned itself as a strong opponent of far-right extremism. But a controversial pilot project and disagreements over policing reforms have exposed divisions within its ranks.
At the state party conference in Eisenberg, SPD leader Georg Maier declared the party the 'vanguard in the fight against fascism.' The statement came as the SPD seeks to counter the growing influence of the AfD in Thuringia. The party also emphasised its role in a rare coalition government with the CDU and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW).
The SPD’s efforts to balance security, social justice, and economic reform come at a critical time. With the 2024 election approaching, the party must address internal divisions while maintaining its stance against the far right. Its ability to stay above the five-percent threshold could hinge on reconciling these competing priorities.
