Cem Özdemir, the Greens’ lead candidate for Baden‑Württemberg’s state election, has said that if he were elected he would be open to appointing independent politicians to his cabinet. Speaking to the Süddeutsche Zeitung, he stressed a pragmatic approach, arguing that the most useful idea matters more than party doctrine. He has made it clear that his party will grant him “maximum freedom of motion” in campaigning and in policy decisions, a promise the Greens have already affirmed will stand after the vote.
Following a joint campaign appearance with Boris Palmer, the mayor of Tübingen, speculation has arisen that Özdemir might include Palmer-who left the Greens in May 2023 amid a separate controversy-in his government. Although Palmer has been non‑partisan since his resignation, his name is still closely linked to the Greens and his potential inclusion has drawn interest.
Özdemir also pledged to ensure that the automotive sector continues to be a pillar of Baden‑Württemberg’s economy. As minister‑premier he would work from Brussels to persuade the European Commission to require Chinese automotive firms investing or manufacturing in Europe to meet local‑content requirements and cooperate with local suppliers. He pointed out that Beijing already imposes conditions on German car manufacturers that produce in China and suggested that the same principle should work in reverse, placing European companies in a stronger negotiating position.
