Four key members of Bern's cantonal government are seeking re-election on March 29. Evi Allemann (SP), Philippe Müller (FDP), Pierre Alain Schnegg (SVP), and Astrid Bärtschi (Mitte) are all campaigning to retain their seats for another legislative period. This election marks a critical juncture for the canton's future direction across various portfolios.
Key Takeaways
- Four incumbent Bern government members are up for re-election.
- Pierre Alain Schnegg (SVP) faces criticism for privatization efforts but is lauded for efficiency.
- Evi Allemann (SP) focuses on social issues and navigating complex legal dossiers.
- Philippe Müller (FDP) champions law enforcement while navigating social media controversies.
- Astrid Bärtschi (Mitte) maintains a steady hand on cantonal finances, prioritizing tax reductions.
Pierre Alain Schnegg: The Health and Social Director's Impact
Pierre Alain Schnegg, representing the SVP, serves as the Director of Health, Social and Integration Affairs. He operates from a notably small office, a stark contrast to the significant power he wields within the government. His tenure has been marked by a strong push for efficiency and privatization.
Schnegg has initiated the restructuring of Bern's entire healthcare system. He has overseen the privatization of hospitals and opened up markets in asylum and home care services. These actions have drawn sharp criticism from the left, who label him a 'privatization turbo' and a threat to the social welfare state. Conversely, right-wing factions celebrate him as a decisive leader paving the way for the future.
Key Fact
Pierre Alain Schnegg holds the smallest government office in Canton Bern despite overseeing one of the most powerful directorates. His focus on data-driven decisions guides his approach to public services.Controversies and Achievements
Despite his drive, Schnegg has faced setbacks. A significant defeat came with an administrative court ruling that overturned his cuts to social assistance for temporarily admitted individuals. His dispute with financial auditors regarding the privatization of Zweisimmen Hospital also highlighted instances where his approach may have overstepped boundaries.
On the other hand, Schnegg's assertive style has enabled him to implement projects at an impressive pace. He managed crises, including the influx of Ukrainian refugees. His willingness to consider unconventional solutions led to initiatives like a new care model for Moutier Hospital and a refugee boarding school in Bellelay. His scrutiny also prevented a major psychiatric merger from becoming a financial disaster.
"The demonization of his person, which the left has been doing for years, is exaggerated. Of course, Pierre Alain Schnegg relentlessly pursues his own agenda. But he is a councilor who takes action and keeps the big picture in mind."
Critics often accuse Schnegg of not adequately involving affected parties in his decision-making. While some improvements have been noted, the perception remains that he engages only out of necessity, with final decisions often aligning with his initial plans. This approach can sometimes overlook valuable external input.
Evi Allemann: Justice and Social Equity
Evi Allemann (SP), the Director of Justice, is known for her measured approach and thorough preparation. She carefully chooses her words, especially within the historic setting of her office. Allemann previously sought nomination for the Federal Council twice, emphasizing her desire for consensus at a national level.
Her work in Bern reflects this pursuit of common ground, albeit on a cantonal scale. The 47-year-old lawyer is deeply engaged with political processes and technical language. She strives to not only explain decisions but also to persuade people of their correctness. This often leads to extensive discussions in parliament and committees, where she sometimes needs reminders about speaking time limits.
Background
Evi Allemann's political career has seen her advocate for increased access to subsidized health insurance premiums, a significant achievement for her as a member of the left-wing minority in the Bern government. This success underscores her commitment to social democratic principles.Challenges and Progress
A persistent issue during Allemann's tenure is the overload at the Office for Municipalities and Spatial Planning (AGR). This has resulted in prolonged procedures. While she attributes some blame to the Grand Council for not approving additional staff, she also notes the increasing number and complexity of cases. The problem remains unresolved.
In sensitive areas, Allemann is cautious with her statements, often referring to regulations. When asked about her preferred directorate if re-elected, she defers, stating, "The newly elected government council will decide who will be responsible for which directorate." She has shown more openness in religious policy, moving beyond a sole focus on state churches to establish regular contact with other faiths. This has led to the development of pastoral care for non-Christian religions in hospitals, prisons, and asylum centers.
Philippe Müller: Security, Social Media, and Setbacks
Philippe Müller (FDP), the Director of Security, presents a dual image: a sober leader in real-world security matters and a provocative figure on social media. He recently discussed the canton's resilience at a military barracks, outlining civil defense improvements and measures against landslides and artillery fire. His proposals were pragmatic and his tone composed.
This contrasts sharply with his online presence, where he criticizes opponents of the army, asylum supporters, and anything he perceives as "woke." His social media posts are often pointed and confrontational. Müller embraces disputes, especially when something displeases him. This makes him relatable to some, but a polarizing figure to others.
Did You Know?
Philippe Müller's office contains airplane models, reflecting perhaps a different side to the security director who often engages in online debates. He is also responsible for sports within the canton.Policy and Public Discourse
Müller's real-world policy record holds few surprises. He is a staunch defender of the police, overseeing personnel increases and modernizing training and professional profiles. He consistently supports the force during demonstrations and incidents of violence. He also worked to reduce pressure on the penal system, with Bern building a new prison under his leadership. However, his container solution for overwhelmed fine collection narrowly failed in the Grand Council.
He faced significant setbacks in administrative projects, including the multi-million-franc failure of the IT project Nevo/Rialto, which aimed to digitally connect the cantonal police and public prosecutor's office. His handling of criticism has also drawn scrutiny, such as his labeling of Amnesty International as "almost left-wing extremist" after they questioned police actions. His calls for a parliamentary investigation into media reporting he disliked raised concerns about judicial oversight.
Astrid Bärtschi: The Steady Hand in Finance
Astrid Bärtschi (Mitte), the Cantonal Finance Director, maintains a low public profile. She avoids provocation and populism, focusing instead on factual discussions. While some describe her as "colorless" or "technocratic," her role as finance director often limits opportunities for high-profile initiatives.
She typically appears when allocating or cutting funds, most notably during budget debates. Currently, she enjoys a comfortable financial position due to rising revenues. In addition to a budgeted surplus of 385 million francs, the Swiss National Bank provided an extra 320 million francs, representing two percent of the budget. Despite calls from left-green parties to increase investments in education and climate protection, Bärtschi advocates for fiscal prudence.
Financial Strategy
Astrid Bärtschi stoically implements Bern's tax strategy, which includes continuous tax reductions for both private individuals and legal entities. This aims to ensure that companies with high profits do not face the highest corporate tax rates in Switzerland, a key concern for the Bernese business lobby.Navigating Political Pressures
As a politician from the center, Bärtschi could play a pivotal role in forming majorities within the government, sometimes aligning with left-green members on specific issues. She emphasizes that political lines in the government council are less rigid than perceived externally. However, the bourgeois-dominated parliament sometimes pressures her with austerity measures.
For example, she faced a mandate to significantly reduce potential new cantonal debt. Lacking alternatives, she had to cut investments, even sacrificing a long-negotiated compromise: the relocation of the Technical College from Bern to Burgdorf. This decision sparked emotional resistance in the affected Emmental region, forcing her to defend her restrictive financial policy against both the left and some conservative members. Her proposals largely passed in parliament, fulfilling her mandate as a pragmatic finance politician.
Looking Ahead to the Elections
The upcoming elections will determine the composition of Bern's government for the next legislative period. Voters will weigh the diverse approaches and track records of these four incumbents. Each candidate brings a distinct style and set of priorities, shaping the canton's future in health, justice, security, and finance.
The outcomes will reflect the public's appetite for reform versus stability, and the balance between social welfare, economic efficiency, and public order. The next few weeks will be crucial as candidates intensify their campaigns and voters consider their choices.