What are the potential successors for the chancellor position in Austria

Introduction

Following Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s announcement to resign, Austria faces uncertainty regarding his potential successor. While no specific names have been officially put forward, there are several possibilities for the next chancellor:

Potential Successors

New ÖVP Leader: The Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) is expected to gather to deliberate on potential successors. Traditionally, the leader of the largest party in a coalition becomes chancellor, so the new ÖVP leader could be a prime candidate.

Moderate FPÖ Figure

Although previously ruled out, there’s a possibility that the ÖVP might consider forming a coalition with the Freedom Party (FPÖ). In this scenario, a more moderate FPÖ figure (not Herbert Kickl) could potentially become chancellor, as President Van der Bellen has expressed reservations about swearing in Kickl.

Compromise Candidate

If coalition talks resume, a compromise candidate acceptable to multiple parties might emerge.

Factors Influencing Succession

ÖVP Internal Dynamics

The neoliberal pro-business wing of the ÖVP may influence the selection of the new party leader and potential chancellor candidate.

Coalition Possibilities

The choice of successor could depend on which coalition, if any, can be formed. This might include:

An ÖVP-FPÖ coalition

A renewed attempt at a centrist coalition

A minority government

Presidential Influence

President Alexander Van der Bellen’s stance on potential candidates, particularly from the FPÖ, could play a role in the selection process.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that the situation remains fluid, and new elections are also a possibility if a stable government cannot be formed. The political landscape in Austria is currently precarious, with no clear path to establishing a stable government due to ongoing disagreements among the parties.