- Warns Woidke about the triumph of extremists: "It entails democracy"
For Brandenburg's Governor Dietmar Woidke, the state elections in Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg carry importance for the stability of Eastern Germany. "This time, it's all on the line. Economic growth, social security, social unity - and for that, we need political stability. At the end of the day, it's also about democracy," remarked the SPD politician to the Hamburg-based magazine "Stern".
The parliament of Thuringia and Saxony will be re-elected on September 1st. Brandenburg follows suit on September 22nd. Surveys in all three states foresee triumphs for the AfD. The AfD is deemed firmly right-wing extremist in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia by the respective domestic intelligence agencies, and a right-wing extremist suspect on a national and Brandenburg level. The party defends itself against this classification in court.
Against the AfD, we must prevail
"In Thuringia, you can unfortunately observe what happens when a government lacks a majority in parliament and extremists reign supreme," said Woidke. There, a minority cabinet composed of The Left, SPD, and Greens is governing. "Thuringia was once the economic blueprint of the East! Now, Brandenburg and Saxony are leading the way, thanks in part to our stable conditions."
Woidke aims to defeat the AfD. "Until the election day on September 22nd, it's about doing everything to prevent our esteemed Brandenburg flag from being tarnished with brown spots." He is resolute in his fight and determination to win. "This election is also a vote on me and what I have accomplished for this land."
Fear of loss among the populace
Citizens of Eastern Germany primarily seek fairness - in wages, opportunities, but also in representation in top positions, said Woidke. The overwhelming majority of people rightfully take pride in what they have constructed. "But what I sense is the fear of losing it all again. These fears of loss have grown bigger due to the numerous crises in the world."
For alterations to the citizen's allowance for Ukrainian war refugees
Woidke advocates for modifications to the citizen's allowance for Ukrainian war refugees. "The decision was crucial at the time, as we had to offer aid promptly. Today, we must question whether this form of aid remains pertinent." In other EU countries, a much larger number of Ukrainians are employed. "We must change that. It would benefit our economy - we need workers - and promote integration," said Woidke.
The Commission, being the governing body in Brandenburg, shares Woidke's concern about the potential rise of the AfD, understanding that their victory could threaten the political stability and social unity of the region.
Woidke aspires to secure a victory against the AfD in the upcoming elections, recognizing that a defeat would not only tarnish the reputation of Brandenburg but also challenge his own leadership and the progress made in the region under his tenure.
