Salzburg local leaders

Being close to the people brought them success in the elections

Presence at local events, house visits and information stands - these are still tried and tested methods when it comes to election campaigns. This is confirmed by two politicians who were successful in the last election.

In the digital age, parties are relying more and more on election advertising, especially on social media. However, as the local council elections on March 10 showed, it still pays off for politicians to be close to the people. "I spent a lot of time with people and at events. That is already being rewarded," the re-elected mayor of Grödig, Herbert Schober, is certain.

He was able to gain more votes in the municipal council. However, this alone is not enough in the end: "We have tried and implemented a lot of new things," says the head of the municipality. For example, the municipality now acts as a property developer itself in order to create more affordable living space.

Greens achieve second place in some places
"We often made house calls and had a large stand. I think we did more than the other parties," says Till Radermacher. With 15.3 percent, he achieved second place in the municipal council with the Greens in Bergheim. He sees another reason for this in the urbanization of the municipality due to its proximity to the state capital.

The situation is similar in neighboring Anthering. There, the Greens with top candidate Monika Wölflingseder were able to make strong gains - even reaching 18.9 percent. They also sought to be close to the people in the run-up to the election. Green successes and second place were also achieved in Seekirchen and Thalgau.