Cem Özdemir elected Baden-Württemberg's new premier in historic coalition deal
Baden-Württemberg has a new state premier after Cem Özdemir of the Greens secured the role in a parliamentary vote. The election marks the continuation of a coalition between the Greens and the CDU, which have governed together since 2016. This time, however, both parties hold an equal number of seats in the state parliament, setting the stage for a balanced partnership. The vote for Özdemir saw only 93 lawmakers support him, well below the 112 seats held by his coalition. Meanwhile, 26 voted against, 4 abstained, and 34 backed CDU state leader Manuel Hagel, who had initially turned down the interior minister role before accepting it. The coalition’s agreement now sets ambitious targets, including climate neutrality for the state by 2040—five years ahead of the federal government’s plan.
Key policies in the deal include a mandatory and free final year of kindergarten for all children. Businesses will also benefit from faster registrations, with startups able to launch within 48 hours. An 'efficiency law' will enforce a 'one-in, two-out' rule, meaning two old regulations must be removed for every new one introduced. To boost innovation, a 'Future Fund' will attract private investment in startups, scaling, and technology. The coalition aims to simplify bureaucracy while pushing forward with environmental and economic reforms.
Özdemir’s election as premier comes with a clear agenda for Baden-Württemberg. The coalition’s plans focus on climate action, business growth, and education reforms. With equal representation in parliament, both the Greens and CDU will now work together to implement these changes over the coming years.
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