Cem Özdemir Announces Candidacy for Baden-Württemberg Minister-President

The Green politician pledges commitment to the state, ruling out a return to federal politics after the 2026 election.

Cem Özdemir, the Federal Minister of Agriculture, has declared his intention to run for Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, aiming to succeed Winfried Kretschmann.
Özdemir has expressed confidence in overcoming the current 16-point polling deficit against the CDU in the upcoming 2026 state election.
He emphasizes his dedication to Baden-Württemberg, stating he will not return to federal politics, regardless of the election outcome.
Özdemir has faced skepticism throughout his career but remains optimistic about leading the Greens to become the dominant political force in the state.
Kretschmann, who has served as Minister-President since 2011, will not seek re-election, marking the end of the longest tenure in the state's history.