SPD fights for survival as Baden-Württemberg's election nears its end

A once-dominant force now clings to relevance. Can the SPD defy the odds in a campaign that's left them sidelined and exhausted?

, and Administrator

2026 March 5 . 11:03 PM

1 min read

The image shows a German propaganda poster for the Nazi Party featuring two men sitting on a couch.... — The image shows a German propaganda poster for the Nazi Party featuring two men sitting on a couch. The poster has text written on it, likely providing information about the party.

SPD Campaign Manager Sees Difficult Situation for His Party - SPD fights for survival as Baden-Württemberg's election nears its end

The SPD is struggling to make an impact in Baden-Württemberg's election campaign. With polls showing the party at just 7-9 percent, its support has dropped sharply since 2021. Leaders now face an uphill battle to regain ground before voting ends on Sunday.

The SPD's decline comes as the race tightens between the CDU and Greens, who dominate media attention. Andreas Stoch, the party's lead candidate, admits it has been difficult to stand out in a campaign framed as a two-way contest. His goal is to keep the SPD in double digits and exceed the 11 percent secured in the last election.

Internal frustration is growing. Daniel Krusic, head of the state's Young Socialists, describes the campaign as depressing and is relieved it will soon conclude. Despite the gloomy mood, SPD candidates report positive interactions at public events, where voters still engage with their policies.

The winter campaign has taken its toll. Stoch acknowledges that the relentless focus on the Greens and CDU has drained the party's energy. With polls showing a 2-4 percentage point drop from 2021, the SPD now trails far behind both frontrunners.

The SPD enters the final days of the campaign with diminished support and limited visibility. Its candidates remain active on the ground, but the party's ability to recover lost votes will be tested. Results on Sunday will determine whether the SPD can hold onto its share or face further decline.