Overview

• The CDU has officially nominated Peter Karst, chief executive of the Handwerkskammer Hannover, to run for Oberbürgermeister in 2026.
• Karst, who only recently joined the CDU, emphasizes sustainable development and presents himself as optimistic and nonconfrontational.
• He faces an immediate task of raising his public profile and name recognition before full campaigning begins next year.
• The race is shaping into a three-way contest against incumbent Green mayor Belit Onay and SPD nominee Axel von der Ohe.
• The CDU’s five unsuccessful bids since direct mayoral elections began in 1996 highlight the uphill challenge ahead.