Overview

• Multiple outlets and SPD sources, including confirmations to dpa, report that Steffen Krach, 46, is the probable pick to challenge CDU mayor Kai Wegner in September 2026.
• State chairs Nicola Böcker-Giannini and Martin Hikel have held confidential talks and intend to present a joint personnel proposal.
• An announcement is expected after the extended Landesvorstand signs off, with reporting pointing to a decision around early to mid‑September.
• Krach currently serves as Regionspräsident in Hannover and previously was Berlin’s science state secretary, and he is described as a pragmatic, well‑networked figure within the party.
• Other floated contenders, including Raed Saleh and Franziska Giffey, are viewed as lacking the necessary backing for the nomination, according to party assessments.