Vorarlberg in election fever: ÖVP in the fight against the FPÖ

Vorarlberg in election fever: ÖVP in the fight against the FPÖ

The Austrian state of Vorarlberg, known for its deep roots in the ÖVP, is faced with a crucial choice. The reigning governor Markus Wallner, in office since 2011, sees itself in an unexpected competition, since the FPÖ celebrated an unprecedented triumph in the national election at the end of September. The party under Herbert Kickl was able to win over 28 percent of the votes and illustrates that they gained influence in Vorarlberg. In some cities, including Feldkirch, Hohenems and Bludenz, the FPÖ even took the lead. While the ÖVP is still ahead nationwide, feel the pressure.

The voters will be called up again next Sunday. The last survey of the “Vorarlberger Nachrichten” was published before the national success of the FPÖ and only shows the ÖVP slightly at an advantage, while the liberal interpreting that they could double their result. The Greens, traditionally less strong in Vorarlberg, see an increase to around 18 percent, while the SPÖ and the NEOS are twelve and ten percent.

The upcoming elections and their importance

Wallner emphasizes that the election day on October 13 will be decisive about future government formation. He emphasizes the need for a clear government mandate for the People's Party to ensure a rapid implementation of your policy. In the event of a possible loss, the ÖVP must consider working with a new coalition partner. This could mean a return to a black and blue coalition with the FPÖ if the ÖVP does not achieve the required majority with the Greens.

The Greens are actively trying to highlight their success in the areas of environment and traffic under the leadership of Daniel Zadra, who entered the government in 2022. For example, almost 25 percent of Vorarlbergers have a climate that enables unlimited trips in public transport. Zadra explains that a positive balance sheet is crucial with regard to local transport and the expansion of electric buses to convince voters. At the same time, the Greens criticize the right -wing populist tone of the FPÖ, which is often shaped by aggressive rhetoric against migrants.

The challenges for government formation

A central topic remains the construction of Lake Constance Schnellstrasse, which is supposed to create a connection between the motorways in Austria and Switzerland. This project, which has been discussed for decades, could have a significant impact on traffic and the economy in the region. Wallner emphasizes the importance of cooperation with neighboring countries such as Germany, especially in the context of energy supply, with the planned largest pumped storage power plant in Central Europe, which is supposed to act as a central resource for southern Germany.

The structures and approaches in Vorarlberg partially deviate from the federal political agenda. FPÖ candidates like Christoph Bitschi have chosen a moderate approach and rely on topics such as family policy and renewable energies. In contrast, Zadra aims to commemorate the ÖVP of its achievements in working with the Greens in order to convince the voters of their importance. This election situation presents Vorarlberg with new challenges, while the parties are preparing for the possibly changed political alliances.

The outcome of the election could not only determine the future political landscape of the region, but also show to what extent the dynamics between traditional politics and new currents can change. Further information and a comprehensive view of the developments related to the choice can be found here