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A packed house during the crucial phase of the local election campaign
During the heat of the local election campaign, the Krone restaurant in Darmstadt was packed to capacity. At the invitation of the Darmstadt SPD, the party chairman and lead candidate Bijan Kaffenberger, Mayor Hanno Benz, and, as a special guest, SPD party chairman and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil, engaged in conversation with numerous citizens.
To kick things off, Bijan Kaffenberger focused on local political issues. The local elections will decide on concrete questions such as affordable housing, childcare places, mobility, urban development, and a strong social infrastructure.
Focus on the financial situation of municipalities
Mayor Hanno Benz addressed the financial situation of municipalities. Darmstadt, like many cities, is under considerable pressure due to structural underfunding and growing responsibilities. A sustainable reform of the municipal financial structure is necessary to ensure long-term viability.
At the same time, Benz emphasized that investments should continue in key future areas, including education and childcare, social infrastructure, climate adaptation, efficient administration, and affordable housing.
With regard to social tensions, he emphasized the importance of democratic engagement and advocated for examining a ban on the AfD.
“No spectator seats” in difficult times
Lars Klingbeil placed the discussion in a national political context. He referred to international developments as well as domestic political challenges. Democracy is under pressure worldwide and also in Germany. His central message was that in the current situation there are no spectator seats and democratic engagement is essential.
Questions about wealth tax and climate policy
The subsequent Q&A session addressed topics such as wealth tax and the socially just design of climate policy. Discussions focused on the financing of public services and investments in the transformation.
The evening highlighted the interplay between federal, state, and local politics. While the Vice Chancellor outlined federal policy guidelines, the Mayor presented the challenges at the local level. Bijan Kaffenberger connected these levels with the priorities for Darmstadt.
The event ended with an appeal for active participation in democratic processes.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM/SPD)
