Arno Klare (born 22 June 1962) is a German politician affiliated with the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). He served as a member of the Bundestag, representing the state of North Rhine‑Westphalia, from 2009 until 2021. His legislative work focused primarily on transportation, digital infrastructure, and related policy areas.
Early Life and Education
- Birthplace: Arno Klare was born in Oberhausen, North Rhine‑Westphalia, West Germany.
- Education: He completed vocational training as a toolmaker and subsequently pursued studies in social work, earning a diploma from the University of Applied Sciences for Public Administration in North Rhine‑Westphalia.
Professional Career
Before entering national politics, Klare worked in the public sector, notably within municipal administration and social services in the Ruhr region. His professional background informed his later legislative interests, especially in labor and infrastructure matters.
Political Career
- Party Membership: Member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) since the 1980s.
- Bundestag Service (2009–2021):
- Elected to the Bundestag in the 2009 federal election via the SPD list for North Rhine‑Westphalia.
- Re‑elected in subsequent elections (2013, 2017).
- Served on the Committee on Transport and Digital Infrastructure, contributing to legislation on road safety, railway development, and broadband expansion.
- Acted as the SPD’s parliamentary spokesperson for transportation policy during parts of his tenure.
- Other Roles: Participated in parliamentary friendship groups fostering bilateral relations with countries such as Poland and the United Kingdom.
Legislative Initiatives and Positions
- Advocated for increased federal investment in railway modernization and the expansion of high‑speed rail networks.
- Supported measures to improve road safety, including stricter regulations on heavy‑goods vehicle operations.
- Promoted the rollout of high‑speed internet access to rural areas, emphasizing digital inclusion as a component of economic development.
End of Parliamentary Service
Klare chose not to stand for re‑election in the 2021 federal election, concluding his twelve‑year tenure in the Bundestag. Post‑parliamentary activities have included participation in advisory boards related to transportation and regional development.
Personal Life
Arno Klare is married and has two children. He continues to reside in the Ruhr area, maintaining involvement in local community initiatives.
References
- German Bundestag official biography (archived records).
- SPD parliamentary group publications and press releases.
- News coverage from major German outlets (e.g., Der Tagesspiegel, Süddeutsche Zeitung) regarding Bundestag committee work and election results.
