Dreyer feels more tension than in her own election campaigns - Rhineland-Palatinate's election hangs in the balance as SPD and CDU clash
The race for Rhineland-Palatinate's next leader has tightened just days before the state election. Incumbent Alexander Schweitzer of the SPD initially led his CDU rival, Gordon Schnieder, in personal approval ratings. But recent party polls now show the CDU slightly ahead, with both sides locked in a close contest as voting day approaches on 22 March 2026.
Schweitzer took over as head of the traffic-light coalition in Mainz in summer 2024, following Malu Dreyer's departure. Now, his campaign faces a final push to secure victory in a fiercely competitive election.
Schweitzer began the campaign with a clear advantage in popularity over Schnieder. As the sitting leader, he enjoyed stronger personal ratings, even as his SPD trailed the CDU in broader party support. By mid-March, CDU polls climbed to 28–29%, while the SPD hovered at 26–27%, narrowing the gap further.
Former leader Malu Dreyer has closely followed the race. She admitted feeling more nervous watching Schweitzer's campaign than she did during her own runs for office. Still, she praised his efforts and expressed confidence in his ability to win. For Dreyer, being directly involved in a campaign—even from the sidelines—proved more intense than observing as an outsider. With just two days left, both parties are mobilising supporters. The outcome remains uncertain, but Schweitzer's team is pushing to turn his personal appeal into votes on election day.
The election will decide whether Schweitzer's SPD can hold onto power or if Schnieder's CDU will take control. Polls suggest a tight finish, with party loyalty and last-minute campaigning likely to play a key role. The result will shape Rhineland-Palatinate's political direction for the next five years.
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