Berlin's SPD leader vows to revive the city's bold spirit in 2025 election
Steffen Krach wants to bring back the bold spirit he believes Berlin has lost. The SPD politician has launched a campaign to reclaim City Hall with the slogan 'Back to Berlin'. He argues that the city, once known for its energy and creativity, now feels stuck under Mayor Kai Wegner's leadership.
Krach looks back to 2002, when he describes Berlin as a place of extraordinary magnetism—a hub for the daring and inventive. He claims that courage and dynamism have faded, replaced by a mood of despondency. His campaign promises a fresh start, with posters carrying messages like 'Back to action, not bickering' and 'Back to unity, not egoism'.
The SPD lost its grip on City Hall in 2023 after voters shifted support to the CDU, which polled ten points ahead. Since then, a coalition of SPD, Greens, and The Left has governed, though Krach admits the defeat reflected public opinion at the time. Now, he insists the next 190 days are critical to winning back trust.
Krach has criticised Wegner's administration for lacking ambition, pointing to Berlin's failed bids for the Expo and Olympics. To regain ground, he plans an aggressive doorstep campaign, vowing to knock on 500,000 doors before the vote. His goal is to outwork rivals, particularly The Left, in direct outreach.
The SPD currently holds 41 seats in the Berlin state parliament. Krach's strategy hinges on reviving the party's connection with voters through grassroots effort. His success will depend on whether Berliners share his vision of a bolder, more decisive city.
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