Upper Austria’s governor Thomas Stelzer (VP) had already taken a position in the OÖN interview at the end of last year: “With a very steady hand, but also determined and statesmanlike,” Alexander Van der Bellen acted as president, Stelzer said at the time. “I appreciate his work for our country.” Therefore, it is a “serious option” to support Van der Bellen in a re-election. Nothing has changed about that, Stelzer confirmed on Monday when asked by OÖN. He welcomes Van der Bellen’s resumption.
The federal VP is more reserved. Chancellor and VP chief Karl Nehammer announced that there would be no ÖVP recommendation for Van der Bellen, but also no VP candidate of his own. “People are mature and can make their own decisions,” said Nehammer. The cooperation with Van der Bellen is “very positive”. The ÖVP therefore wishes him “all the best for his candidacy”.
Tyrol’s governor Günther Platter was stronger behind Van der Bellen. “He has my support,” Platter said.
The Greens, from whose ranks Van der Bellen came, as well as SPÖ and Neos announced on Sunday that they would support Van der Bellen. Green leader Werner Kogler called Van der Bellen an “anchor of stability for Austria”.
FPÖ puts up opposing candidates
The FPÖ, which will nominate its own candidate, sees things differently. As reported, the Upper Austrian MP Susanne Fürst has good chances. It’s still a long time before a decision is made. First, the FP federal party presidium and board must meet. The anti-vaccination party MFG, which is also “dissatisfied” with Van der Bellen’s administration, wants to decide on a possible candidate in the summer. (mst)
Source: Nachrichten
