The Social Democratic Party (SP) and the Green Party in Bern have launched their joint campaign for the upcoming cantonal elections in March. Their platform emphasizes solidarity, climate protection, and reliability as core values for the canton's future. The parties aim to reclaim a majority in the Regierungsrat, Bern's executive council.
Key Takeaways
- SP and Greens campaign on solidarity, climate, and reliability.
- Their ticket includes Evi Allemann, Aline Trede, Reto Müller, and Hervé Gullotti.
- The primary goal is to secure a majority in the Regierungsrat.
- They criticize current policies for favoring tax cuts over public services.
- Key focus areas include affordable housing, healthcare, and energy transition.
Rotgrün Unveils Joint Election Ticket
The SP and Green alliance, known as Rotgrün, presented its four-person ticket for the Regierungsrat elections. The team includes incumbent Regierungsrätin Evi Allemann (SP), who is seeking re-election. She is joined by Nationalrätin Aline Trede (Greens), Langenthal City President Reto Müller (SP), and Tramelan Municipal President and former Grand Council member Hervé Gullotti (SP).
This coalition seeks to shift the political balance in the canton. Bern's Regierungsrat has a predominantly bourgeois majority. The Rotgrün alliance explicitly states its objective is to regain control of the executive body, a challenging task given the canton's political landscape.
Election Snapshot
- Date: March cantonal elections
- Alliance: SP and Green Party (Rotgrün)
- Motto: "Zäme witercho" (Together we move forward)
- Candidates: Evi Allemann, Aline Trede, Reto Müller, Hervé Gullotti
Challenging the Status Quo
Hervé Gullotti addressed the difficulties of campaigning in a canton with a strong bourgeois presence. He noted that the left has historically faced uphill battles. Gullotti highlighted the importance of promoting progressive positions, especially when right-wing populism gains traction across Europe.
The Rotgrün alliance criticizes the current bourgeois policies. They argue that these policies overlook the needs of the general population. Specifically, they point to budget cuts justified by supposed austerity measures, while simultaneously offering tax benefits to corporations and wealthy individuals.
"In a time when the right is experiencing a surge with populism across Europe, it is more necessary than ever to push for left-wing positions to succeed."
Prioritizing Social Welfare and Public Services
The SP and Greens promise to advocate for a society built on solidarity. Their platform includes commitments to a comprehensive healthcare system and affordable health insurance premiums. They also prioritize climate protection and the transition to renewable energy.
The campaign slogan, "zäme witercho," which translates to "together we move forward," encapsulates their vision. They believe a strong canton respects human dignity, ensures security, provides reliable legal frameworks, and promotes equality. These principles are seen as crucial for fostering safety, trust, and sustainable prospects, especially in uncertain global times.
The Bern Regierungsrat
The Regierungsrat is the executive body of the Canton of Bern. It consists of seven members who are elected by popular vote. The council is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the canton and the implementation of laws passed by the Grand Council (Grossrat).
Addressing Key Public Concerns
Regierungsrätin Evi Allemann identified the growing scarcity of affordable housing as a major challenge. She stressed the need for collaboration among the canton, municipalities, and private sector. An active and balanced housing and spatial planning approach is essential to meet diverse housing needs.
Nationalrätin Aline Trede emphasized that health and climate are top concerns for the population. According to recent surveys, these issues weigh heavily on residents. Trede argued that climate protection cannot be postponed. She highlighted Bern's vulnerability to climate change, particularly its mountain regions and urban heatwaves, necessitating immediate action.
The energy and transport transitions must be implemented in a socially responsible and efficient manner. This means ensuring that climate policies do not disproportionately affect vulnerable populations while still achieving environmental goals.
Climate Impact in Bern
- Large mountain regions are sensitive to temperature changes.
- Urban areas experience increased heatwaves.
- Rapid action is needed for energy and transport transitions.
Investing in a Strong Canton
Reto Müller underscored the economy's reliance on a strong and capable state. He stated that the canton is not a corporation and should not be managed as such. While a company can withdraw from unprofitable areas, the state cannot and should not.
Müller advocated for targeted investments instead of tax breaks. He believes these investments should focus on areas that strengthen the canton: health, social services, education, mobility, sport, and culture. He views sport and culture not as cost factors, but as essential location factors that enhance the canton's appeal and quality of life.
The canton must create conditions that preserve existing jobs and facilitate the creation of new ones. This includes fostering the transition towards clean technologies, which Müller emphasized as crucial for future economic growth and sustainability.