Stefan Zitzmann rejoins CDU after 2025 exit but skips 2026 election bid

A surprising comeback with a twist: Zitzmann’s return to the CDU comes with a decision to step back from the ballot. What changed behind the scenes?

, and Administrator

2025 December 14 . 9:06 PM

1 min read

people are sitting on the chairs. in front of them there is a table on which there is a jug, papers... — people are sitting on the chairs. in front of them there is a table on which there is a jug, papers and pen. behind that there are people seated on the chairs. the person at the center is holding a microphone and speaking. behind them there is a white and blue flag. at the back there is a white and blue background on which honorable camara de is written.

Stefan Zitzmann rejoins CDU after 2025 exit but skips 2026 election bid

Stefan Zitzmann has rejoined the CDU in Darmstadt after leaving the party in August 2025. His return was confirmed by CDU chairman Friedrich Merz, who reinstated him to the city council election committee—a role Zitzmann has held since January 2022. The decision follows a series of discussions between the politician and party leaders.

Zitzmann announced his return via a Facebook post, stating that his commitment to 'the core essence of Christian Democratic politics' drove his decision. He admitted that important conversations with the party had been overlooked before his departure. His reinstatement came after what both sides described as 'reflective exchanges'.

CDU leader Paul Georg Wandrey highlighted the value of open dialogue in resolving political differences. Zitzmann also clarified that he would not run for city council in the upcoming local election on March 15, 2026. However, he noted that had he stayed on the election list, he would not have lost his position as a councillor.

The CDU faction in Darmstadt has readmitted him to its city council group, where he will continue serving until at least December 2025.

Zitzmann’s return strengthens the CDU’s presence in Darmstadt’s city council for now. His decision not to seek re-election means the party will need to find a new candidate for the 2026 election. The reinstatement follows a period of negotiation and reflection within the local party.