Zug,15.10.2018
Council of States member Peter Hegglin wants in on the Federal Council
Peter Hegglin (57) wants in on the highest executive in the country. In an interview, the CVP Council of States member shares what distinguishes him, what he still wants to work on and which department he is least interested in. The four-time father from Menzingen was for many years finance director of the canton of Zug.
Peter Hegglin, what motivated you to run for the Federal Council?
The candidacy to the Federal Council is a unique opportunity that I want to take. However, I made the decision only after careful consideration. The challenges facing a Federal Council are huge - I am aware of that. You can also sometimes tell from the magistrates’ physical appearance how exhausting their office is. But I have come to the conclusion that I want to face the challenge. I have the energy, the unbroken creativity and stamina needed for this office. Besides, I am at a prime age.
Are you not an outsider?
No, not at all. I have proven that I am able. From the municipal council through to the cantonal council, and state council, I have been through it all. The so-called slow uphill grind is behind me. For 15 years I was in the executive branch, 15 years in the legislature. My only handicap is that I am not a woman. However, my guess is that the CVP will drive with a two-seat ticket, whereby one woman and one man will be represented. But of course, I do not want to promise too much. Nothing is set until the ballots are counted.
How would you see your role in the Federal Council?
I can be a bridge builder in a polarised world. I am a good listener. In addition, it is acknowledged that I can explain complex issues in an understandable manner. I am not a fair-weather politician however: I am steadfast and do not cave in easily.
What do you still want to work on?
The languages. I speak school English and spent a year in Lausanne. But that is also already thirty years ago. I am not an academic, but that is just one aspect. Much more central to me seems the ability to apply knowledge. That I am able to do so, I have proven many times.
As a Federal Council member, you would be the representative of central Switzerland. What would that mean to you?
As a Federal Council member, I have to decide for the common good of the whole country. As a Zuger and Swiss national from central Switzerland, I would be happy if benefits for my home region would materialise as well. Central Switzerland undoubtedly makes an important contribution to the well-being of Switzerland as a whole. Naturally, as a Zuger, I first think of fiscal equalisation, but also the jobs along the Gotthard axis are indispensable for Switzerland. Insofar, it is high time that we are represented in the Federal Council once more.
Which national policy topics are particularly close to your heart?
The first thing that comes to mind is the fiscal policy. It is important that the tax reform gets through. The topic of national fiscal equalisation is also central. It has been demonstrated that central Switzerland stands united behind the compromise of the cantons. Now, the compromise is also to be successful at the federal level. Further, I want to advocate for the age reform: we have to take responsibility for our youth and the reform helps us achieve this. Another project of mine is to make federal financial reporting easier to understand. And last but not least, topics such as the Postfinance concern me. We have to ask ourselves how the organisation can perform on the market. After all, it is national property, which is to be taken care of and managed in a value-adding way.
A Federal Council candidacy is associated with stress and pressure. Are you ready for this?
The first stressful phase is behind me. Now that my decision has been made, I am somewhat more relaxed as I can work with purpose towards my goal. But of course, the pressures regarding the schedule will follow soon.
The CVP has the strictest selection process of all parties. Candidates are assessed by a judge. The financial and family situation is also examined. A problem for you?
No. The Federal Council is the most supreme executive of our country. The magistrates should act as benchmarks and role models. Therefore, I understand that they must undergo a rigorous selection process. I can stand by everything that I have done in my life. That is why I look towards the proceedings calmly, though not relaxed. My only concern is privacy: You can tell how this is always becoming smaller. As a Federal Council member, I will probably no longer be able to sit in a café without being recognised or addressed.
As a Federal Council member, one should not be a party soldier. How easy is this for you?
For a successful career as a Federal Council member, a strong party is important and provides the necessary backing. On the other hand, I am used to working in a collegial body and representing their decisions for the common good also against party interests. As councillor and president of the cantonal Conference of Finance Directors, there have been such constellations here and there.
Are you interested in the Finance Department?
Ueli Mauer is still in office. I do not feel the need to dispute one's department. That is not my style. I am open to everything. Though I would not want to take over the Department of Foreign Affairs immediately.
What does your family think about your candidacy?
I have called a family council on this issue. My wife and children support me fully in this decision. My youngest daughter is 23, the oldest 28. As such I do not have to change diapers anymore (he laughs).