There she is, the woman who called on former SVP chairman Toni Brunner (48) to succeed federal councilor Ueli Maurer (71): Nidwaldner SVP government councilor Michèle Blöchliger (55) flirts with a candidacy from the Federal Council.
“It would be a very attractive and challenging task, and you only have once in your life to run for such an office,” said the finance director of the “Tages-Anzeiger”. You’ve already had conversations with the family and the party.
Lots of experience in the canton
The Central Switzerland native has yet to make a name for herself on the national stage – apart from the corona pandemic, when she was in the public eye as health director. She has already gained four years of experience in the state government and was a member of the cantonal parliament for another 16 years.
She is well networked in the SVP. She founded the Nidwalden section 23 years ago. Many would encourage her to run for office. She also speaks French, Italian and English, which is an advantage for the Federal Council Office.
One drawback: Your chances of being elected are slim – because MPs still prefer to vote for one of them – someone they already know from the Federal Palace.
Central Switzerland has been underrepresented for 20 years
Blöchliger certainly wants to make a decision this week. Other real candidatures from Central Switzerland have also been missing so far. The initial favourite, Landsraadslid Franz Grüter (59), has canceled. Obwalden National Councilor Monika Rüegger (54), Zug Government Councilor Heinz Tännler (62) and faction leader Thomas Aeschi (43) have not yet left the race. So far they have not accepted or canceled.
Central Switzerland has not been represented in the Federal Council for nearly 20 years. In any case, the two Bernese Albert Rösti (55) and Werner Salzmann (59) are in the race so far. (Tom)