Green Ticino: strategy for the 2026 cantonal elections

Context

In brief

• Greens Ticino explore alliances for 2026 cantonal elections
• Goal: progressive front with MPS and PS
• Greta Gysin might run for the State Council

Key facts

• What: Strategy for the 2026 cantonal elections
• When: Assembly held on April 26, 2026
• Where: Locarno, Ticino
• Who: Greens of Ticino
• Amount: Not yet specified

The Greens of Ticino are working to define their strategy ahead of the 2026 cantonal elections. During an assembly held in Locarno on April 26, 2026, the party tasked its coordination with exploring possible alliances to present a broader progressive front. 'We have been given the mandate to explore the alliance certainly with the MPS and the PS, with whom we are already in contact,' explained Samantha Bourgoin, co-coordinator of the party, to the microphones of SEIDISERA. Moreover, the Greens intend to deepen contacts with other formations, such as Più Donne and the PC.

Analyses following the 2023 elections had highlighted that part of the Greens' electorate identifies with the party's ecological policies but not with its social policies. Furthermore, the alliance with the PS had resulted in a performance below expectations. However, Bourgoin emphasized that the Greens are convinced that their work in Parliament can make a difference. 'Because as Greens, we are certainly the most credible and the most aggressive in advancing our themes,' she stated.

Regarding government action, Bourgoin deemed 'dangerous' a right that gains ground by blaming the left and the Greens for the deficits. 'Together with other forces, with other movements, we would be stronger,' she added. For the State Council, many await a 'yes' for the Government race from the current national councilor Greta Gysin. However, it is still too early to think about names. The objectives, however, are clear: if on the right UDC and Lega do not run together, interesting paths open up.

Goals and Alliances

The Greens of Ticino aim to create a progressive front that can effectively counter the right. The alliance with MPS and PS is considered fundamental, but collaborations with other political forces are not excluded. This strategic approach could allow the Greens to achieve better results compared to previous elections, where the alliance with the PS had not met expectations.

Co-coordinator Samantha Bourgoin emphasized the importance of presenting themselves as a credible and aggressive party on ecological issues. This could attract a broader electorate, even among those who do not identify with the party's social policies. Furthermore, the alliance with other political forces could help counter the narrative of the right, which often blames the left and the Greens for the deficits.

Possible Candidacies

Among the names that could emerge for the State Council race is that of Greta Gysin, current national councilor. However, it is still too early to confirm any candidacy. The Greens of Ticino are working to define a clear and coherent strategy that can lead to positive results in the 2026 elections. The goal is to present themselves as a united and determined front, capable of facing future challenges successfully.

Operational details

Analysis of Implications

The strategy of the Ticino Greens to explore alliances with other progressive political forces could have a significant impact on the 2026 cantonal elections. This approach could attract a broader electorate, including those sensitive to ecological issues but not necessarily to the social policies promoted by the Greens. Furthermore, a united progressive front could more effectively counter the narrative of the right, which often blames economic deficits on the left and the Greens.

Comparison with Previous Elections

In the 2023 elections, the alliance between the Greens and the PS did not meet expectations, partly due to the divergence between ecological and social policies. This time, the Greens intend to present a broader front that can also include other political groups. This could help overcome internal divisions and present a more united and coherent image to the electorate.

Possible Scenarios

If the alliance with MPS and PS materializes, the Greens could achieve better results compared to previous elections. Additionally, the possibility of collaborating with other political forces, such as Più Donne and the PC, could further expand the electoral base. However, it is important that the party maintains its credibility on ecological issues, which represent one of its strengths.

Practical Implications for Cross-Border Workers

For cross-border workers residing in Ticino, the 2026 cantonal elections could have a significant impact on local policies, particularly those related to the environment and sustainability. A united progressive front could promote more ambitious policies in these sectors, with possible benefits for the quality of life and the environment. Furthermore, collaboration between different political forces could lead to greater stability and cohesion in the cantonal government.

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Key points

Concrete actions for citizens

For Ticino citizens and cross-border workers interested in actively participating in the electoral process, it's important to closely follow the developments of political alliances and official candidacies. Here are some concrete steps that can be taken:

1. Stay informed about alliances: Follow news and official statements from the Ticino Greens and other political forces involved to better understand the dynamics of the alliances. 2. Attend local events: Participate in public meetings and debates organized by the parties to express your opinions and get to know the candidates better. 3. Register to vote: Make sure you are registered to vote and know the dates and locations of the elections. 4. Use comparison tools: Use online tools like the election calculator to compare the proposals of different parties and candidates. 5. Participate in awareness initiatives: Join campaigns and initiatives promoted by the Greens and other political forces to promote ecological and social issues.

Useful tools

To delve deeper into the 2026 cantonal elections and the policies of the Ticino Greens, you can consult the party's official website and use tools like the election calculator to compare the proposals of different parties. Additionally, it's useful to follow the news and official statements to stay updated on the developments of alliances and candidacies.

Source: rsi.ch