Former Baden-Württemberg Minister President Kretschmann reflects on retirement, populism and civic life

Winfried Kretschmann, who led Baden-Württemberg from 2011 to 2026, sat down in his countryside workshop to talk about life after politics, noting his struggle with modern IT devices and his enjoyment of carpentry and gardening. He misses high-level policy debates but appreciates everyday conversations at local events. Kretschmann warns that right-wing populism, exemplified by the AfD, thrives on emotional online amplification and erodes factual argumentation.

He stresses the need for robust democratic education, protection of scientific research, and active stewardship of baroque churches as Germany becomes less religious. He also reflects on personal habits, such as playing the card game Binokel online, and cites recent reading of Agnes Callard’s work on Socrates as inspiration for confronting one outlet political climate.