Munich elects Green Party's Dominik Krause as new mayor amid shifting politics
Dominik Krause, a 35-year-old Green Party politician, has been elected as Munich's new mayor. His first official act was attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the redesign of Willy-Brandt-Platz. The project will add more trees and a new fountain to the area.
The 2026 municipal election also saw the AfD make gains, rising from 3.9% to 6.9% and securing five seats. Meanwhile, the CSU remained strong, with Clemens Baumgärtner topping the party list with 198,653 votes. Krause's priorities as mayor include improving public spaces and increasing green areas across Munich. He also plans to tackle housing affordability, focusing on rent controls and reducing vacant properties.
With the Greens holding 21 of the 80 city hall seats, Krause needs 41 votes to form a majority. Exploratory talks have begun with both the SPD and the CSU, though no preferred partner has been named. A coalition with the CSU remains possible, despite disagreements over transport policy.
Krause has identified potential common ground with other parties on Munich's Olympic bid. However, he has not yet outlined specific plans for how this cooperation would work in practice.
The AfD's increased support—now at 6.9%—gives them faction status for the first time. This shift adds a new dynamic to city politics, though their role in coalition discussions remains unclear. Krause's election marks a new direction for Munich, with housing and green spaces at the top of his agenda. Coalition talks are underway, and decisions on partnerships will shape the city's policies in the coming years. The AfD's gains also introduce fresh challenges to Munich's political landscape.
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