Candidate Parade - Press Ball in Campaign Times - Kretschmann’s exit reshapes race as rivals shine at State Press Ball
The annual State Press Ball, a gathering of politicians, journalists, and influential figures, took place recently. The event was notable for the appearances of lead candidates from major parties and an announcement by the incumbent minister-president of the United States.
Winfried Kretschmann, the long-serving minister-president, used the occasion to declare he will not seek re-election in the upcoming March 8, 2026, state election. His decision opens the race for his successor.
Cem Özdemir, the lead candidate of the Green Party, attended the event with his partner Flavia Zaka. They posed together, marking a public moment for the couple. Meanwhile, Manuel Hagel, the lead candidate of the CDU, shared a romantic moment with his wife Franziska on the red carpet, kissing her as they arrived.
With Kretschmann's retirement announcement, both Özdemir and Hagel are now likely to open the next State Press Ball with the traditional first dance, as they are the front-runners to replace him.
The State Press Ball served as a significant platform this year, with the incumbent's retirement announcement and the public appearances of leading candidates. As the election approaches, the political landscape is shifting, and the next State Press Ball promises to be a notable event in this transition.
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