Politician in Retirement: Governed for 15 Years, Now Retired – Sleep Is Still Gone

Fifteen years at the helm of Baden-Württemberg were supposed to lead to more sleep for ex-Minister-President Winfried Kretschmann. However, since his retirement in mid-May, the 78-year-old politician finds himself struggling with a new problem: insomnia. "I often have sleep disturbances now," Kretschmann told the "Süddeutsche Zeitung." He wakes up at night and cannot fall back asleep for long periods.

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I often have sleep disturbances now.

Kretschmann reportedly does not miss the active political life. "I don't miss having responsibility for day-to-day political matters," he said. While in office, he felt he constantly suffered from a sleep deficit. Now that he has the opportunity to sleep in, his body is presenting a challenge.

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I don't miss having responsibility for day-to-day political matters.

Kretschmann served as Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg from 2011 until mid-May. His initial rise to power was significantly influenced by the Fukushima nuclear disaster. The accident in Japan occurred just weeks before the state election, dramatically shifting the political climate. "I would not have become Minister-President if Fukushima hadn't exploded three weeks before the state election," Kretschmann reflected.

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I would not have become Minister-President if Fukushima hadn't exploded three weeks before the state election.

He attributes his subsequent two re-elections solely to his own performance, stating, "That was because of me." Despite his current sleep issues, Kretschmann's political career saw him navigate significant events and secure multiple terms in office.

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That was because of me.