From 1991 to 1999, he was Premier ("Ministerpräsident") of Hesse, serving as President of the Bundesrat from November 1998 to April 1999.
From 1991 to 1999, he was Premier ("Ministerpräsident") of Hesse in a coalition with the Greens. Eichel also served as President of the Bundesrat from November 1998 to April 1999.