- Thuringia's SPD leader discovers potential for coalition with BSW in context.
In terms of Thuringia, SPD's leading candidate, Georg Maier, sees a viable opportunity for a coalition with Sahra Wagenknecht's alliance (BSW), but only if the local BSW becomes more pragmatic and focuses on Thuringian matters. As per the 57-year-old's statement to "Welt", SPD's federal chairperson Saskia Esken suggested that state associations should make a decision on a potential coalition with the BSW.
Maier expressed his disagreement with Wagenknecht, implying that her actions are detrimental to the coalition possibilities. He emphasized in the "Welt" interview that Wagenknecht is doing her best to keep such an alliance from happening, as her demands are not compatible with either the SPD or the CDU.
Expectedly, new elections for the Thuringian state parliament are planned for September 1. As per recent surveys, the race for the second spot might be closely contested between CDU and BSW. The political circumstances are so intricate that, at present, a coalition of CDU, BSW, and SPD seems like the only realistic political option, which would also ensure a majority. However, Wagenknecht has placed her stance on war and peace as a condition for forming coalitions in the states, a topic that falls under the jurisdiction of the federal government, not the states.
The CDU is predicted to compete closely for the second spot in the upcoming Thuringian state parliament elections, according to recent surveys. Given the complex political circumstances, a coalition of CDU, BSW, and SPD appears to be the sole realistic political option in Thuringia, potentially securing a majority.
