Duisburg’s Lord Mayor Sören Link steps back from 2027 state election race

A surprise exit reshapes the SPD’s strategy for 2027. Who will step up to lead the party in North Rhine-Westphalia’s pivotal state election?

, and Administrator

2025 November 13 . 7:22 AM

1 min read

This picture is clicked outside the city. In the center we can see the two cars running on the... — This picture is clicked outside the city. In the center we can see the two cars running on the road. At the bottom left corner there is a text on the image.

Duisburg’s Lord Mayor Sören Link steps back from 2027 state election race

Duisburg’s Lord Mayor Sören Link (SPD) has confirmed he will not run as the party’s top candidate in next year’s North Rhine-Westphalia state election. Link, who had been considered a strong contender, announced his decision in an interview with Bild, citing his commitment to serving his constituents as Lord Mayor.

Link’s refusal to take on the role comes after SPD leader and Federal Labor Minister Barbara Bas had reportedly backed him as the party’s lead candidate for the 2027 campaign as early as January. Despite Link’s withdrawal, the SPD in North Rhine-Westphalia has several qualified candidates who could potentially take on the top role in the election. The party plans to finalize its election campaign strategy in January.

With Link’s decision, the SPD in North Rhine-Westphalia will now look to other candidates to lead the party into the 2027 state election. The party remains confident in its pool of talent and will continue to prepare for the election campaign.