863.00/11–2745: Telegram
The United States Political Adviser for Austrian Affairs (Erhardt) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 28—9:42 a.m.]
498. Ernst Fischer Communist Minister Education when asked for comments on Austrian elections suggested following factors explained [Page 665] Peoples Party victory and Communist Party defeat:24 (1) Strength of traditional party allegiances; (2) Desire for return to normalcy; (3) Women’s family solidarity with Nazi relatives; (4) Russian occupation. Fischer considers electorate clearly disowned Communists and “on basis democratic principles” Communists have lost right participate Government. He fears, however, that return to two-party system will also mean return to pre-1934 parliamentary deadlock making it impossible reach clear solutions on important issues. His personal opinion is that Communists must now confine themselves to playing role of anti-Fascist gadfly in Parliament. Fischer thinks that formation fourth party composed progressive elements Peoples Party which appeared to loom before election now unlikely following Peoples Party triumph.
In Fischer’s opinion Figl Chairman Peoples Party will now form own Cabinet to include Socialist members. Loss of Renner as Chancellor will be felt keenly since only Renner of all contemporary Austrian politicians has stature qualifying him for this most important post. His election as President which is likely might reduce his influence to relative insignificance.
Practically all Communists are stunned and disillusioned by shattering defeat which was expected by no one and older leaders such as Fischer are busy trying to restore faith younger party workers.
- Elections were held on November 25 with 94% of the 3,400,000 eligible voters participating. The People’s Party received 49.84% of the votes and 85 mandates, the Socialists 44.54% and 76 mandates, and the Communists 5.44% and 4 mandates.↩