The Austrian Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) is navigating a period of internal strife as it attempts to regain political ground. Currently polling at 18% as of , the party has been grappling with questions about its leadership and future direction. Recent developments, including the decision of former Chancellor Christian Kern not to challenge current leader Andreas Babler for the party leadership, have exposed deep rifts within the SPÖ.
Kern’s potential candidacy had initially stirred considerable debate. A poll commissioned by the “Krone” newspaper in early suggested that under Kern’s leadership, the SPÖ could gain six percentage points, potentially surpassing the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) in voter support. This prospect prompted support from within the party, including Max Lercher, the SPÖ leader in Styria, who publicly acknowledged Kern’s “qualities and his understanding of modern social democracy.” Lercher, who previously served as Kern’s Federal Secretary, emphasized his “highest opinion” of Kern’s expertise.
However, despite this backing from key figures – including SPÖ provincial leaders from Lower Austria, Carinthia, Salzburg, and Styria, as well as former chancellors – Kern ultimately decided against running. The decision, made on , came after discussions with Vienna’s Mayor Michael Ludwig and Carinthia’s governor-elect Daniel Fellner. While Ludwig indicated a willingness to allow Kern to compete, without actively hindering his campaign, the lack of full support from the powerful Vienna SPÖ proved a significant obstacle. Kern reportedly did not feel confident enough to proceed without that active backing.
The internal dynamics highlight the challenges Babler faces as party leader. Support for Babler appears to be particularly weak in Upper Austria, where several SPÖ officials have expressed concerns about his ability to revitalize the party, citing years of declining voter numbers and a perceived lack of public resonance. One former state parliament member and SPÖ mayor reportedly stated that Babler “is not as well received by people as they would have hoped.” This sentiment underscores a broader dissatisfaction with Babler’s leadership within certain segments of the party.
The debate surrounding Kern’s potential candidacy also touched upon the perception of Babler as a “reformer.” Some within the SPÖ believe that Babler’s reformist image has been compromised by the realities of governing within a three-party coalition. This suggests a tension between the desire for substantive change and the practical constraints of collaborative politics.
The situation within the SPÖ is further complicated by the broader political landscape in Austria. The rise of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and its dominance of the migration issue present a significant challenge to the SPÖ and other established parties. The SPÖ’s struggles to connect with voters and articulate a compelling alternative vision have contributed to its declining support.
The decision by Kern not to challenge Babler does not necessarily resolve the underlying issues facing the SPÖ. While it avoids a potentially divisive party conference scheduled for , the party remains fractured and in need of a clear strategic direction. The call for greater unity from SPÖ mayors suggests a recognition of the need to address internal divisions and present a more cohesive front to the public. The party’s future success will likely depend on its ability to overcome these challenges and regain the trust of Austrian voters.
The “Krone” newspaper poll indicated that Kern’s leadership could potentially shift the political landscape, but his withdrawal leaves the SPÖ to navigate its current challenges under Babler’s leadership. The party’s performance in upcoming elections will be a crucial test of its ability to address the concerns of its base and compete effectively against its rivals.
