Greens target disillusioned FDP voters after electoral collapse
The Green Party is targeting voters from the struggling Free Democratic Party (FDP) after its recent electoral setbacks. Britta Haßelmann, the Greens' parliamentary leader, criticised the FDP for failing to uphold its core principles of freedom, the rule of law, and civil rights. She also rejected calls to split the state premier's term in Baden-Württemberg, insisting the Greens would lead as the election winners.
The FDP has faced a sharp decline in support since the 2021 Baden-Württemberg election, where it secured 10.5%. In later votes, its performance collapsed: 4.3% in the 2025 federal election, around 1% in Brandenburg, Saxony, and Thüringen in September 2024, and 2.3% in Hamburg roughly a year ago. By 2026, the party fell to 4.4% in Baden-Württemberg, failing to enter several state parliaments.
Haßelmann argued that the FDP's struggles stem from its inability to champion its traditional values. She also dismissed Union faction leader Jens Spahn's suggestion to divide the state premier's term, pointing out that tight election results have never before stopped the winning party from taking office. The Greens, she said, would proceed as planned, with their candidate leading the state government. The Greens now see an opportunity to win over disillusioned FDP supporters. Haßelmann stressed the potential for growth, claiming her party could appeal to voters frustrated by the FDP's weakened position.
The Greens are pushing ahead with plans to attract FDP voters, capitalising on the party's declining fortunes. Haßelmann's remarks signal a firm stance on both governance and strategy, with no compromise on the state premier's role. The FDP, meanwhile, has yet to show signs of recovery in recent elections.
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