Maja Riniker joins Argovian government, creating first dual-female executive
PLR councilor Maja Riniker was elected to the Argovian government, marking the first time the cantonal executive includes two women.
Maja Riniker, a 48-year-old PLR member, entered the Argovian government after winning a supplementary election that saw a participation rate of slightly more than 20%. She was supported by the UDC, the Centre and the cantonal association of artisans and property owners, and campaigned under a non-partisan slogan. The election was triggered by the departure of Stephan Attiger, a PLR director of public works who had been in office since 2013.
Riniker, who has served in the National Council since 2019 and chaired the Chamber of the People in 2025, will move from Bern to Aarau. With Martina Bircher’s entry in 2024, the Council of State now includes two women for the first time in its history, alongside members from the UDC, PS, Centre and PLR.
Why it matters
The appointment creates a gender milestone in Argovie's executive, reflecting shifting political dynamics.
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