Hessen's municipal election campaign gains momentum - Hesse’s 2026 municipal elections heat up as parties expand campaigns statewide
Hesse is preparing for its next municipal elections, set for March 15, 2026. Voters will choose new representatives in 21 districts and 421 cities and towns. Several parties have already announced their strategies and candidate lists ahead of the vote.
The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has put forward around 4,000 candidates, ensuring coverage across the entire state. Their campaign aims to maintain a strong presence in both urban and rural areas.
The Green Party is expanding its reach into smaller towns, including Großkrotzenburg, Mengerskirchen, and Flieden, where it has never before fielded candidates. The party hopes to build on its 2021 result, when it secured 18% of the statewide vote.
Meanwhile, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has seen an increase in new members, helping to fill candidate lists across Hesse. The Free Democratic Party (FDP) has finalised its slates for major cities and districts, targeting voters focused on economic progress.
The Left Party plans to contest seats in all district councils and independent cities, aiming for its strongest-ever showing in the region. It expects to compete in at least 100 local parliaments, including smaller municipalities.
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) also anticipates significant gains compared to the last municipal elections, though specific projections remain unclear.
The upcoming elections will determine local leadership in hundreds of communities. With multiple parties expanding their campaigns, the results could shift political representation in Hesse’s towns and districts. Voters will decide on March 15, 2026.
