Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, a senior FDP politician, has withdrawn her bid for the party chair as part of a proposed dual‑leadership arrangement. She made the decision after the party’s vice‑chair Henning Höne announced his own candidacy for the top post.
“Their candidacy has my full support” Strack‑Zimmermann told “Der Spiegel”. She had earlier described Höne as a suitable partner for a dual leadership structure. “From the outset I made it clear that the two‑thirds majority required for a dual top is a very high hurdle” she added, referring to the upcoming federal party conference at the end of May. “After many discussions it does not appear likely that the party will currently achieve such a majority”.
A solo nomination would not be feasible for her, given her responsibilities as chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Security and Defence. “Given Henning Höne’s decision, this is logical and welcome” she said. Strack‑Zimmermann praised Höne, stating she has always respected him and noting that he is a young yet experienced leader of the strongest FDP state association in North Rhine‑Westphalia.
The European parliamentarian confirmed that she will continue to serve in the FDP’s executive committee and remains committed to the party’s future.