S explicit round in Hamburg: SPD negotiates with the Greens and CDU!

In Hamburg, the exploratory talks between the SPD and the Greens and the CDU begin today, 17 days after the citizens' choice of March 2, 2025. The talks with the Greens take place at 11:30 a.m., while the conversations with the CDU are scheduled for 3:30 p.m. The SPD, which has won the choice with 33.5 % of the votes, sees the decision as to whether it wants to continue the existing red-green coalition or to form a new coalition with the CDU (red-black).

federal politicians have highlighted advantages of a red-black coalition, especially with regard to the approval of the Federal Council and migration policy. Mayor Peter Tschentscher from the SPD calls for regular approval from the Greens, but this is rejected by them. Differences also come to light for topics such as parking spaces and motorway construction. Tschentscher refers to the Greens as a "wish partner".

explorations and differences in the conversations

It is unclear whether the results of the explorations are still announced today. The SPD plans to decide on the coalition talks at the earliest tomorrow on the state board. The Greens expect the talks with the CDU to increase the pressure on concessions. The CDU pursues the goal of gaining more influence in the Senate, especially in certain areas of responsibility.

The CDU received 19.8 % of the votes in the election of the citizens and is therefore behind the SPD, but in front of the Greens, which achieved 18.5 %. Coalitions are possible with both the Greens and the CDU. The Greens hope that talks with the CDU will drive their concessions ahead. In particular, the CDU could be important for changes in the debt rules that require a two-thirds majority.

The SPD's election victory is considered positive for the entire party by Matthias Miersch, the party's Secretary General. Tschenscher emphasizes the great approval for the coalition with the Greens, but also provides for talks with the CDU. CDU top candidate Dennis Thering makes the SPD the offer to form a "strong coalition".

The turnout was 67.7 %, which is an increase compared to the previous election. The left achieved a historically strong result with a double-digit share of the vote, while the AfD was left behind the expectations, although co-chair Tino Chrupalla is still satisfied with the result.