Manuel Hagel Nominated as CDU's Top Candidate for Baden-Württemberg State Election

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Baden-Württemberg has officially announced Manuel Hagel as its leading candidate for the upcoming state election in 2026. This decision was made during a recent party convention held in Stuttgart, where Hagel secured an overwhelming majority with 272 out of 290 valid votes, equating to an impressive 93.8% support from delegates.

At 37 years old, Hagel aims to succeed the current Minister-President Winfried Kretschmann of the Green Party, who has decided not to run for re-election in March 2026. The CDU, which is the second-largest state association within the national party, is presenting a united front and is optimistic about its chances to dethrone the Greens from their governing position.

In the electoral battle, Hagel will face Cem Özdemir, the former Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, who represents the Green Party. During his acceptance speech, Hagel emphasized his commitment to addressing the concerns of the ordinary citizen, stating that the party aims to be the "political home for the diligent" and a "club for the everyday people."

The convention attracted hundreds of delegates, including notable former ministers such as Günther Oettinger and Stefan Mappus. Hagel articulated his vision of representing the quiet and moderate citizens, asserting that the bürgerliche Mitte, or the bourgeois center, is often overlooked and unrepresented in the political discourse.

In addition, Friedrich Merz, the national chairman of the CDU, attended the event as a keynote speaker, marking his first appearance as party leader at a state convention. The outcome of the 2026 state election is anticipated to serve as a crucial barometer for Merz's federal government, with the performance of the CDU in Baden-Württemberg being closely monitored as it could significantly impact the party's standing at the national level.

As the CDU prepares for the campaign ahead, it is clear that the party is rallying around Hagel's leadership, aiming to reinvigorate its position and challenge the longstanding dominance of the Green Party in the region.