Following the vote, Schubert acknowledged the outcome, stating he respects the democratic decision and expressed pride in serving his hometown.

Critics cited leadership failures, including delays in citizen services and inadequate staffing in the city administration, as reasons for his removal.

The city council initiated the referendum process in early April 2025, citing concerns about Schubert's management and his refusal to resign voluntarily.

The referendum saw a voter turnout of 37.2%, with 36,228 votes supporting Schubert's removal, narrowly exceeding the required quorum of 25%.

City officials expressed concerns that Schubert's leadership style led to significant problems in the administration's core functions, contributing to his downfall.

Schubert had been in office since 2018, and his term was set to conclude in the fall of 2026 without the removal.

In the interim, Finance Officer Burkhard Exner will temporarily assume the mayoral duties until a new election is scheduled within five months.

Potential successors for the mayoral position include Building Officer Bernd Rubelt and former Education and Culture Officer Noosha Aubel, both of whom are independent.

This is not the first time a Potsdam mayor has been voted out; a similar initiative succeeded in 1998 against SPD mayor Horst Gramlich.

Schubert's tenure faced criticism due to a VIP ticket scandal and issues related to his leadership style and personnel management.

Mike Schubert, the SPD mayor of Potsdam, has been removed from office following a citizen referendum where 68.3% voted for his early dismissal.

The historic town hall, undergoing extensive renovations since 1907, reflects the city's broader struggles with urban development and administrative responsiveness.