CDU and Greens trade accusations in final sprint before Baden-Württemberg election - Baden-Württemberg's Election Heats Up as Greens and CDU Trade Blows Over Tactics
The final days of Baden-Württemberg's state election campaign have seen tensions rise sharply between the Greens and the CDU. Accusations of mudslinging and disinformation now dominate the debate. Both parties have traded sharp criticism over campaign tactics and personal conduct.
The dispute intensified after the Green Youth urged supporters to contact relatives and friends by phone. Their message focused on Manuel Hagel, the CDU's lead candidate, referencing his controversial 2018 interview. In it, Hagel made remarks about a female student's appearance that drew widespread criticism. The Green Youth framed the issue as a question of respect and modern leadership.
The CDU responded angrily, with Secretary-General Tobias Vogt accusing the Green Youth of crossing a line. He claimed their campaign encouraged the spread of attack messages rather than policy discussion. CDU state chairman Florian Hummel also weighed in, calling the election a choice between the Greens and the CDU. He blamed the Greens for economic struggles, including recession and unemployment.
Lena Schwelling, co-leader of the Greens, dismissed the CDU's complaints. She accused the party of spreading disinformation and fake news. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Green Youth defended their approach, arguing that youth organisations naturally campaign against opposing parties. They also insisted voters must decide who they trust, asserting Hagel was not the right choice.
Hummel maintained his own appeal differed from the Green Youth's tactics. He claimed his focus was on political differences, not personal attacks. The CDU, however, continued to criticise the Greens for what they called a loss of moral compass.
The election campaign now heads into its last stretch with both sides refusing to back down. The Greens stand by their strategy of highlighting Hagel's past remarks, while the CDU insists the Green Youth's methods are unacceptable. Voters will soon decide which party they trust to lead the state.
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