The Green Party leadership duo, Franziska Brantner and Felix Banaszak, are aiming for a second term. This report, citing internal messages from the Green party leaders, published by the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, confirms both their intentions. Banaszak announced in a message to his supporters that he is running again for federal chair, intending to work with the party base to prepare for the next federal election. Brantner also announced her re-candidacy via email, stating that she would run again alongside Felix for co-leadership of the party. The leaders will seek re-election at the Federal Delegates Conference in Berlin, set to take place from December 4th to 6th.
The Green party leaders acknowledge that while their party is currently on course, they face significant challenges. Banaszak praised the Greens for developing a new campaigning capability and greater dynamism, but also highlighted the continued need for reform. He stressed the importance of addressing the pending components of a Green renewal, warning that the party must always strive to see the complete picture, rather than only focusing on aspects that fit its own agenda. Furthermore, the Greens must combat the deep loss of trust that has affected the political system, political parties, and their representatives-a crisis that is intensifying weekly if not properly managed.
Brantner elaborated that the Greens must serve as the “central force” that “provides orientation and draws up a vision for the future.” The party intends to tackle the climate crisis through innovative ideas and citizen participation, while also addressing wealth inequality, including efforts to limit large fortunes. Critically, the Greens must rethink their approach to the Alternative for Germany (AfD). Brantner noted that mere outrage has not shrunk the AfD, arguing that the party needs to learn from this and improve how it conducts politics, making it “closer to the problems people face in everyday life, without preaching from a high horse.”
