It will be a historic day in Styrian state politics: Christopher Drexler is elected new ÖVP state governor during a special session of the state parliament, Hermann Schützenhöfer says goodbye to his retirement. What you need to know: Here’s the most important information of the day.
It’s been a month since Hermann Schützenhöfer caused a sensation: on June 3, he announced his resignation as governor of Styria, after seven years in office and halfway through the current legislature. The successor was no surprise: Christopher Drexler, most recently State Councilor for Culture, Sport, Europe and Human Resources, a close companion of Schützenhöfer – and for many years dubbed the “Crown Prince”.
“Indispensable to triumph against the federal government”
Today, July 4, Drexler will be officially elected in a special session of the state parliament. First, Schützenhöfer stepped to the lectern. He asked the state parliament to “equip Drexler with a leap of faith”. Drexler could lead the country into the future, he was a “man of words, strategy, deeds and visions”, he could also stand up to the federal government – “that is essential”. Styria needs new roads, Drexler will go them.
Here you can watch the special session of the state parliament from 9:00 am in the livestream:
Schützenhöfer characterized his successor as “intellectual, very sensitive and thoughtful. Dear Christopher, you are built really close to the water.” Shortly afterwards, the outgoing governor reached for his handkerchief as he thanked his wife Marianne (“my greatest support”).
“Take good care of this country”
At the end of his surprisingly short speech, Schützenhöfer warned that society and politics needed more bridge builders and more dialogue. Finally, a request to the state parliament: “Look closely at this country.” There was long applause and standing ovations for the visibly moved 70-year-old.
Not all parties vote for Drexler
According to Schützenhöfer, representatives of all factions have their say. The coalition partner SPÖ already gave approval on June 3 and confirmed the continuation of the coalition the week before. KPÖ and Neos will not vote for Drexler, Greens and FPÖ left it open until the end.
Excitement for a big speech
After his election, Drexler himself will be on the lectern. It will be interesting to see what political guidelines and goals he will outline. In recent weeks, he has been demonstratively reluctant to withdraw from substantive statements. At around 5 pm Drexler was sworn in in Vienna by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen.
Werner Amon is also new
Drexler’s successor as state councilor will be former Ombudsman Werner Amon. He is responsible for the Education, Europe and Human Resources departments. His election will also take place on Monday, but he won’t take office until Tuesday – that’s when the last regular session of the state parliament before the summer holidays takes place.
Schützenhöfer caused a stir on June 3 with his statement “We still have to work on his (Drexlers, pay attention) popularity”. A street poll by the “Krone” shows that both the new governor and Amon still need to work on their reputation.
Source: Krone
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