Klaus Ernst is known as a Porsche-driving trade unionist. The ex-Left leader has changed parties several times and now he wants to help the Sahra Wagenknecht alliance. He explains why this could also work in Bavaria.
According to surveys, the “Alliance Sahra Wagenknecht” (BSW) has a good chance of entering three East German parliaments in the state elections in the fall. It will also be running in Bavaria for the first time in the European elections in June. The alliance positions itself on the left in terms of economic policy, at the same time warns against “uncontrolled migration” and is openly courting AfD clients. Critics also accuse the Wagenknecht party of being close to Russia. Beyond these conflict issues, the question arises as to whether the BSW can function in Bavaria. A conversation with ex-Left leader Klaus Ernst, the party’s most prominent Bavarian face – about opinion research at gas stations, Hubert Aiwanger and the question of whether Bavaria really still needs a party that gossips about gender in the beer tent.