The upcoming state election in Baden-Württemberg, scheduled for March 8, 2026, will feature a new electoral system that includes a second vote for state lists, similar to the federal election, and allows voting from age 16. While the impact of these changes remains uncertain, current polls suggest a significant shift in party standings compared to the 2021 election, potentially altering the governing coalition. The incumbent Greens, led by Winfried Kretschmann who is not seeking re-election, have nominated Cem Özdemir as their top candidate, but polls place him as an outsider. The CDU, under Manuel Hagel, is leading in the polls and aims to end the Green era, with Hagel positioned as a strong contender for Minister-President. The AfD and Greens are in a close race for second place, a stark contrast to the 2021 results where the Greens were the strongest party.