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AfD doubles support in Hesse's local elections amid shifting political tides

A once-marginalized party now commands growing influence in Hesse. Can the AfD's grassroots momentum reshape local governance?

The image shows a group of people walking down a street in Berlin, Germany, holding a pink banner...
The image shows a group of people walking down a street in Berlin, Germany, holding a pink banner with the words "Happy Pride March" written on it. The street is lined with buildings with windows, light poles, and traffic signals with poles. In the background, the sky is filled with clouds.

AfD sees itself on the rise after local elections - AfD doubles support in Hesse's local elections amid shifting political tides

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has claimed significant gains in Hesse's local elections. Party co-leaders Robert Lambrou and Andreas Lichert stated that support for the AfD has more than doubled since the last vote. They argue that attempts to marginalise the party are now losing their impact.

In the 2021 local elections, the AfD secured 6.9 percent of the vote in Hesse. This time, Lambrou and Lichert say the party has built a stronger presence at the grassroots level. They believe this growth reflects the AfD's deeper integration into local politics.

The co-leaders also suggested that strategies to ostracise or demonise the party are becoming less effective. With more representatives in local councils, the AfD plans to push harder for the interests of its voters.

While exact seat numbers from the October 14, 2023, elections remain unclear, preliminary trends in certain areas, such as Birkenau, indicate a rise in support. The party now aims to use its expanded influence to shape local decision-making.

The AfD's reported gains suggest a shift in Hesse's political landscape. With a stronger foothold in local councils, the party is positioned to play a more active role in regional governance. Official seat counts will confirm the full extent of its progress.

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