Tarek Al-Wazir, the state Minister of Economy in Hesse, is the most popular politician in the region despite his Green Party’s decline in polls. He emphasized his party’s achievements in a coalition with the CDU, focusing on the economy and ecology. Hesse’s economy has seen growth, with Frankfurt Airport driving economic activity, employing a diverse workforce. Al-Wazir, born near Frankfurt, faced racism early in his career but now has a good relationship with the CDU, with whom his party is in coalition.
The upcoming regional election in Hesse is influenced by national politics, where discontent with the federal government is high. The CDU is expected to receive over 30% support, while the Greens have slumped to 17%. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser of the SPD faces challenges in her campaign, with her party polling at 16%. The CDU criticizes Faeser’s dual roles as a federal minister and candidate, highlighting security concerns and refugee policy.
The growing threat of far-right extremism in Hesse, as noted by the state intelligence service, is a concerning issue. Boris Rhein of the CDU has focused on border controls and deportation in his campaign, aiming to address these security concerns. He remains cautious about coalition partners, ruling out cooperation with the far-right AfD party, which has seen a surge in polls in the state. The issue of far-right extremism has been downplayed in the state parliamentary election, despite criticism from the opposition SPD.