FDP's new leader Wolfgang Kubicki vows 10% vote target as party polls dip to 3%

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) in Germany fell to 3% in the latest Politbarometer poll, remaining below the 5% threshold needed for Bundestag entry. New party chairman Wolfgang Kubicki, elected over Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, dismissed the setback and set an ambitious goal of reaching 10% of the vote.

At the party congress, Strack‑Zimmermann created a dispute by releasing a stink bomb that disrupted the event and shifted media focus away from the party's program. The FDP's new platform includes proposals to cut bureaucracy by merging or eliminating at least 100 federal agencies over five years, a 50‑cent rule to protect workers' earnings, and the abolition of inheritance tax. Kubicki positioned himself as the key figure to deliver these reforms and achieve the 10% target.

The internal conflict and low poll numbers highlight challenges for the FDP ahead of upcoming state elections, while the party hopes its policy proposals and Kubicki's leadership can revitalize support.