Hans Niessl is positioning himself as a potential candidate in the 2028 presidential election, a move that could stir up internal conflict within Austria’s Social Democratic Party (SPÖ). The former governor of Burgenland announced his intentions, citing encouragement from the public and a desire for a leader who can bridge political divides.
“Bin Realist”: Niessl rechnet nicht mit Unterstützung der SPÖ
Niessl emphasized that his initiative did not originate within the SPÖ. “This is an initiative of the people,” he said, adding that they have been urging him to run on a non-partisan platform. He noted that support has approach not only from the Social Democrats but also “quite a bit from the ÖVP and even a part of the FPÖ.”
Niessl does not anticipate official backing from his party. “I am a realist,” he stated, referencing internal divisions within the SPÖ. He suggested that some within the party have not forgiven him for his positions on immigration or past coalitions with the Freedom Party. He also indirectly reaffirmed his criticism of the current leadership under Babler-SPÖ, arguing that the party needs “to discuss content and obtain approval for the content positioning of all federal states.”
“Die Menschen sind unzufrieden”
Niessl is calling for a stronger focus on performance and the economy. “We simply have to focus on performance again, we have to strengthen the economy so that jobs are preserved,” he said. He stressed the need to relieve the burden on small and medium-sized businesses, as “the people are unhappy,” as polls and election results indicate.
As an independent candidate, Niessl plans to rely on donations to fund his campaign. He believes that being free from party affiliation is an advantage: “A party candidate has to represent party interests.” His vision for the office includes regular visits to Austria’s federal states. Regarding the Bundesheer (Austrian Armed Forces), he expects “appropriate action” as president.
Niessl also intends to play a more active role in foreign and economic policy. He believes that foreign trips should be “increased, especially now in these economically challenging times,” to maintain contacts. “We live in a turning of the times,” he said, pointing to the ongoing war and economic stagnation.
The early announcement of Niessl’s candidacy adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape ahead of the 2028 election. His willingness to run even without SPÖ support signals a potential challenge to the party’s established order and could open the door for a broader, more independent campaign.
