KPÖ federal spokesperson

“We are committed to people, not mandates”

Tobias Schweiger on the reasons for the Communists' success, their plans and goals - and the alleged fear of the other parties.

And another agitator in a dark red frock. Kay-Michael Dankl could become mayor of Salzburg. After Elke Kahr in Graz, it would be the next coup for the communists in a major city. How can that be explained? "It's quite simple," says federal spokesperson Tobias Schweiger. "People realize that we are there for them and their concerns. And that we are credible."

The 33-year-old native of Graz is a housing and social counselor for his KPÖ in Vienna. "A lot of people in need come here and we help them fill out forms," says Schweiger. Sometimes there is also financial help. The political science graduate was a member of the Young Greens for a long time, but left the party in a dispute with the then leader Eva Glawischnig.

Tailwind for the federal government
The communists are known for doing without traditional politicians' salaries. Everything over 2500 net goes into a social pot. For donations. This would not change even if he were to become a member of the National Council, says Schweiger, who receives 1,200 euros a month as a party employee. Just on the poverty line.

Will he manage to get in? "I think it will be close. If we make it, then we will also work with welfare pots here. And campaign for affordable housing, but also a 30-hour working week with full wage compensation, etc.," says Dankl. The KPÖ currently has around 2000 members. And the trend is rising. There is a general tailwind. And they are hoping that the media will take more notice of their messages. An important factor for election campaigns. The fact that other parties warn of the "red danger" does not bother him. "If they are afraid, that's their problem. We are committed to the people, not the mandates."