“NEOS Crash in Salzburg: Reflections and Recommendations for the Future”

What do you say about the NEOS crash in Salzburg?

Gris

That was a shock. I didn’t expect that at all. I am sorry that the state party’s very good work in many areas was hardly noticed.

Why?

Gris

I come from western Styria and know how extremely sch

who it is for young parties to build something in the countries

en to reach people. Unlike in the federal government or in Lower Austria, this has apparently not yet succeeded in Salzburg.

Could the NEOS face a similar crash in the National Council elections as in Salzburg?

Gris

I do not believe that. The federal party is much better positioned, and party leader Meinl-Reisinger has charisma. MPs like Stephanie Krisper or Gerald Loacker also have a clear profile.

But what does the party stand for ten years after it was founded?

NEOS is a center party, a party that is not corrupt. This is almost a unique selling point of the NEOS.

But that doesn’t really ignite.

Gris

People have a strong need for harmony. Many people are not comfortable with the constant denunciation of grievances, according to the motto: reporting on corruption is more disruptive than corruption itself.

And beyond?

Gris

Unfortunately, the core issue of education has faded into the background. It’s also bulky and doesn’t particularly affect many voters. The question of what it takes for the next generation to do well is central. And by that I don’t just mean cutting luxury pensions in favor of the young. On security issues, the NEOS are the only party that dares to question whether neutrality is still up to date.

Thousands of former NEOS voters migrated to the communists in Salzburg. What does that say about the profile of the party?

Gris

It is understandable that leftists like the communists are well received in Salzburg. They promise cheaper housing and even open their wallets to help people. Conveying simple topics in a catchy way and living them yourself is currently a shortcoming with the NEOS.

What do you recommend to your former party?

Gris

It sounds trite, but the NEOS have to go back to the people more, patrol households, hold town hall meetings across the country. A systematic dialogue across Austria about pink politics, not just before elections but throughout the year. In this way, new comrades-in-arms can be recruited in communities and districts, who not only make themselves important for a short time, but also work for the party in the long term. That’s the only way I see.

Sounds a bit retro in the age of social media.

Gris

I don’t look in there. am i retro There are many like me.