Mayoral election in Frankfurt (Oder): Who will be Wilke's successor?

Mayoral election in Frankfurt (Oder): Who will be Wilke's successor?

In Frankfurt (Oder, a city with almost 60,000 inhabitants and the fourth largest city in Brandenburg, the signs point to an election campaign. A new city leader will be elected on September 21, 2025, as the previous mayor René Wilke, who was in office until the end of May this year, is now acting as Interior Minister in Potsdam. The election campaign for the successor began after Wilke's change on May 22 and brings with it exciting challenges, such as sustainable growth, housing and strengthening the economy.

Four candidates are running, including two men and two women, all of whom have different political orientations. This ensures a diverse choice of options that attracts citizens' attention and could boost voter turnout.

candidates

Let's start with the first candidate: Désirée Schrade from the CDU. The lawyer and chairwoman of the city council is pleased with René Wilke's support and is calling for new initiatives in economic development. On the other side is Wilko Möller from the AfD, who is running for the second time as a member of the state parliament. After receiving 17 percent of the vote in 2018, this time he is focusing on security and fighting crime in the city, which has already been classified as a “crime-prone place”.

The SPD is represented by Simona Koß, who, as a former member of the Bundestag, is focusing on stronger cooperation with Slubice and promoting cultural activities in Frankfurt. Finally, there is Axel Strasser, a 48-year-old political scientist and speaker at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Strasser sees himself as an independent candidate and emphasizes the need to spur economic development in the region while aiming to increase trust in politics.

The challenges for Frankfurt (Oder)

The city faces some challenges. For example, chip manufacturer FMC recently relocated to Magdeburg, which led to an economic setback. There is also a strong feeling of insecurity among the population, especially among young women. Axel Strasser has recognized this and plans to ask his voters to vote for the candidate who will run against the AfD if he does not make it to the runoff.

A possible runoff election is scheduled for October 12, 2025, which could have a decisive impact on the race. As the candidates adjust to voters, the city is sure to show an increased pulse in the coming weeks.

Regional and political context

A systematic change has taken place in Brandenburg: since 1993, mayors and since 2010 district administrators have been elected directly by the citizens. This ensures that voters can cast their votes directly, but this often results in low voter turnout. Many citizens do not know enough about the role of the mayor or the election programs, so that often less than half of the citizens take part in the elections.

The four candidates are now required to introduce themselves to the voters and win the trust of the population. Before the new mayor can take up his official duties, there will be changes in Brandenburg caused by demographic developments. The political framework is subject to constant change, which means an exciting time for everyone involved.