New Faces in Baden-Württemberg Parliament: From Classroom to Plenary Hall

As of March 15, 2026, the new state parliament of Baden-Württemberg will welcome 71 first-time members, bringing diverse backgrounds and experiences to the political arena. Among them are Benjamin Bauer, a high school teacher from Karlsruhe, and Mario Schneider, a club owner from Ulm, both securing direct mandates in the recent state election.

From Teachers’ Room to Plenary Hall: Benjamin Bauer’s Transition

Benjamin Bauer, a teacher at the Lise-Meitner-Gymnasium in Karlsruhe, won a direct mandate for the Greens. He reflects that the shift from classroom to plenary hall simply changes the audience, noting that parliamentarians have a voluntarily attentive audience, unlike students. Bauer intends to continue focusing on education policy within the state parliament, believing his experience navigating difficult situations and conflicts in a school setting will be valuable in a coalition environment.

Plenum and Party: Mario Schneider’s Dual Role

Mario Schneider, representing the CDU, also secured a direct mandate from Ulm. Unlike Bauer, Schneider plans to balance his political duties with continuing to operate his club. He emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the experiences of young people, viewing his nightlife venue as a bridge to that demographic. Schneider, a graphic design graduate, even designed his own campaign flyers, opting for a unique style rather than adhering to typical CDU designs.

Full-Time Mandate and Potential for Secondary Employment

Since 2011, the state parliament of Baden-Württemberg has operated as a full-time parliament, meaning members exercise their mandate as their primary occupation. However, secondary employment remains permissible, with the exception of positions within the public sector.

Schneider’s Perspective on Political Engagement

Schneider expressed his enthusiasm for joining the state parliament, describing his first group meeting as “surreal” and stating his eagerness to contribute to shaping policy. He believes his ability to connect with people, honed through his experience as a club operator and restaurateur, will be a key asset in his new role.

Bauer’s Reflections on Leaving the Classroom

Even as excited about his new position, Benjamin Bauer admits to feeling some sadness at leaving his teaching post, acknowledging he shed a few tears at the prospect of the change. He previously graduated from the Karlsruhe Lise-Meitner-Gymnasium in 2008 before returning as a teacher.