Millions for the state election campaign in MV - Millions pour into Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's fierce election battle
The race for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's state election is heating up, with major parties and campaign groups committing substantial funds. The SPD, CDU, and AfD each plan to spend over one million euros, while smaller parties and grassroots alliances are also ramping up efforts. New initiatives, including a well-funded alliance against far-right influence, are reshaping the campaign landscape.
The SPD has already spent over one million euros in the 2021 state election and intends to match that figure this year. Their strategy centres on personalised social media content, leveraging top candidate Manuela Schwesig's 51,000 Instagram followers. Meanwhile, the CDU is allocating more than one million euros, focusing on policy details and large-format posters across the region.
The far-right AfD leads in digital engagement, with 15,700 followers, and plans a strong ground campaign backed by a high six-figure budget. Political scientist Wolfgang Muno notes that despite social media's rise, traditional door-to-door canvassing still plays a decisive role in election results.
A new player, the nationwide campaign group Campact, aims to raise one million euros to counter the AfD's influence. Half of its funds will support local initiatives like Together in Motion and Grandmothers Against the Far Right, while the rest will fuel its own anti-AfD campaigns. As of March 2026, 47 local groups in the state are part of the Zusammen bewegen alliance, which has organised 12 regional festivals, over 200 school integration projects, and a cycling network expansion since its 2024 launch.
Smaller parties are also investing heavily. The Greens have set aside €350,000, the BSW €480,000, and the Left Party around €600,000 for their campaigns.
With multiple parties and campaign groups pouring resources into the election, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is set for an intense political battle. The SPD, CDU, and AfD are leading in spending, while grassroots movements and digital strategies add new dimensions to the race. The outcome will depend on how effectively each side balances traditional outreach with modern campaigning tactics.
