Sebastian Kurz: Is the ex-chancellor actually coming back into politics?

Sebastian Kurz: Is the ex-chancellor actually coming back into politics?

The political waves in Austria are rising: Former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz is considering a return to politics. The rumors about his comeback have gained new impetus due to the failure of the three-party coalition. According to domestic policy journalist Erich Vogl from “Krone”, there are voices within the ÖVP who are hoping for a return from Kurz, who has already shone with his election wins in the past. However, Vogl warns that the political landscape is now overshadowed by investigations against Kurz and other party colleagues, which makes the chances of further electoral success seem questionable.

The comeback scenario is increasingly becoming more concrete. As oe24 reports, the ÖVP's states and federal states are already exploring possible strategies for Kurz's return. Important politicians have sought contact with Kurz and those around him to find out whether he is ready for another political challenge. An influential state politician said: “Everything is now moving towards new elections and Kurz is the only one with whom we can currently win an election.” Within Kurz's support team, there is ongoing discussion about the possibility that the former chancellor could run in new elections with his own list, which would give him a more flexible position.

Support is growing

The return plans are based on rapidly growing support in federal states such as Lower Austria, Salzburg and Tyrol, where numerous political partners see a new attempt for the black-blue coalition under the leadership of Kurz. If Kurz puts his plans into action, his own election program could bring him 15 to 20 percent of the vote, according to a confidant. Despite the threat of indictment, those around him do not see this as a problem, similar to the case of Donald Trump, who was also not deterred by legal challenges.

The financial basis for a return is also there: Kurz has made significant profits in the past, and there is industry support for a possible own list. But the question remains whether Kurz will run for the ÖVP under these conditions or go his own way. An insider describes the new dynamic surrounding Kurz: “He definitely has the financial means for it.” The ÖVP is warned: a Kurz with its own list could result in a sharp decline in votes for the party, something that has been described as political suicide.