FDP Considers Legal Action Over Exclusion from Baden-Württemberg Election DebateSat 31st Jan, 2026The Free Democratic Party (FDP) in Baden-Württemberg has announced its intention to pursue legal measures against the regional broadcaster SWR regarding the structure and timing of a televised debate, commonly referred to as a 'triell,' ahead of the upcoming state parliamentary elections. The party contends that the current debate schedule compromises the principle of equal opportunity among political parties. The FDP argues that this arrangement unfairly disadvantages parties not included in the debate, especially during the critical final phase of the campaign. SWR maintains that the nearly two-week gap between the debate and election day provides sufficient distance to ensure fairness for all parties. The party views the timing and format of the debate as a potential legal infraction that could materially influence the outcome of the election.

Source: The Munich Eye January 31, 2026 18:23 UTC