Germany Faces First Winter Election in Over Three Decades

The rare winter Bundestag campaign challenges politicians and voters with freezing temperatures, logistical hurdles, and reduced engagement.

Germany's last winter Bundestag election was in 1987, with subsequent elections moved to warmer months due to logistical difficulties and lower voter turnout.
Politicians and campaign workers face harsh winter conditions, with some, like Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, adapting with warm clothing and alternative outreach methods such as indoor town halls.
Psychologists note that winter's 'seelischer Winterschlaf' (emotional hibernation) makes voters less receptive to political messaging, complicating campaign efforts.
Traditional campaign activities like outdoor events and festivals are limited, reducing opportunities for voter interaction and engagement.
Logistical challenges, such as venue shortages due to overlapping with Carnival season, and the fragility of campaign materials in cold weather, further strain election preparations.