Zurich SVP Nominates Rickli and Hübscher for Cantonal Government
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Zurich SVP party has officially nominated Health Director Natalie Rickli and National Council member Martin Hübscher for the cantonal government elections in spring 2027.
- Rickli, seeking a third term, expressed motivation to continue serving the canton, while Hübscher aims to succeed retiring councilor Ernst Stocker.
- Both candidates will face a final decision from SVP delegates in July, with Rickli considered a strong contender due to her popularity and incumbent advantage.
The Zurich branch of the Swiss People's Party (SVP) has officially put forward Health Director Natalie Rickli and National Council member Martin Hübscher as its candidates for the cantonal government elections in spring 2027. The nominations follow some internal deliberation, particularly regarding Rickli's political future.
Rickli, who is seeking a third term in the cantonal government, had recently caused some confusion by exploring a potential candidacy for the Council of States. However, she has now confirmed her intention to remain in the cantonal government. "I am very motivated to continue serving as a government councilor for the people of Zurich and for a high-performing canton with a high quality of life," she stated in the party's press release.
I am very motivated to continue serving as a government councilor for the people of Zurich and for a high-performing canton with a high quality of life.
Hübscher, a National Council member since 2023, is set to succeed cantonal councilor Ernst Stocker, who is retiring after 16 years. Hübscher, a farmer by profession, has extensive political experience, including eight years leading the SVP faction in the cantonal council. He aims to champion a strong economic location, sound public finances, and a high quality of life in the canton.
Both candidates will have their nominations finalized by SVP delegates in July. Rickli, known for her popularity and strong performance in previous elections, is considered to have a significant advantage as an incumbent. Hübscher's candidacy also followed some hesitation, but he ultimately decided to run, bringing his experience from politics, business, and agriculture to the campaign.
I want to advocate for a strong economic location, sound public finances, and a high quality of life in the canton of Zurich. For this, I bring my experience from politics, business, and agriculture.
Originally published by Neue Zürcher Zeitung in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.