FDP is fighting for new group status in the state parliament - individual fate or hope?

FDP is fighting for new group status in the state parliament - individual fate or hope?

In the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, a new chapter opened up: On June 21, 2025, the FDP, after lost its parliamentary group status, will be recognized as a parliamentary group. Three remaining MPs, René Domke, David Wulff and Barbara Becker-Hornickel, are now joining together to form the "group of FDP". This decision was necessary because the FDP was no longer able to reach the required minimum number of four MPs for a faction after the unexpected exit of Sandy van Baal in May. NDR reports that the group will be presented in the state parliament next Wednesday at 10 a.m.

The creation of this new group not only has political effects, but also means financial help for the liberals. Thanks to the group status, you can now regain some of the lost funds and rights, for example in the form of extended speaking time and right of application. Previously, the cuts had led to considerable financial losses after the loss of the faction status and the loss of jobs for parliamentary group staff. CDU and AfD, on the other hand, have spoken out against the new status and warn of possible financial consequences that could bring about such recognition.

political statement and support

The way to form the group is not easy. Talks with other factions in Schwerin are already running. While the SPD parliamentary group, under the direction of Julian Barlen, signals willingness to talk, the CDU and AfD see the advance rather critically. There is a clear division in the political landscape: Die Linke is quite positive about the FDP's wish and is open to recognition.

The FDP MPs also strive to be sent to all committees of the state parliament as advisory members without voting rights. This would enable them to continue to actively submit applications and to participate in parliamentary will formation, although parliamentary members can often only participate in a committee.

The financial situation and support

The three liberals want at least half of the state parliament's previous grants for their parliamentary work, which corresponds to around 57,000 euros per month. These funds are crucial for their political work in order to be able to guarantee the efficiency and continuity of the FDP in the state parliament. A parliamentary group can receive financial aid in a similar way to a faction, which is of great importance for the FDP in order to cushion the consequences of the loss of parliamentary group.

The loss of the parliamentary group status was no coincidence. As early as the state elections in 2021, the FDP only won 5.8 percent of the votes and entered parliament with five MPs. Internally there were upheavals in the past after Sabine Enseleit had left the party and the faction in September 2024 and switched to the CDU. Sandy van Baal followed her example in May 2025 and excluded from the parliamentary group.

The developments related to the FDP in the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are an exciting example of the dynamics of the political landscape and the challenges with which smaller parties are confronted today. It remains to be seen whether the FDP group can strengthen itself and its influence in the state parliament is growing. However, it is clear that you will start political work with a fresh wind and new motivation, knowing that the entire framework conditions have not become easier.