Parties: Bollinger: AfD Wants to Move into Mainzer Staatskanzlei

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is setting its sights on a significant political shift in Rhineland-Palatinate, aiming to secure the state's top leadership position. Outgoing state chairman Jan Bollinger declared the party's ambition to move beyond its current standing and enter the State Chancellery following the 2031 state elections.

Speaking to nearly 500 attendees at the state party convention in Bingen, Bollinger emphasized the need for continued professionalization to achieve this goal. He stated, "The party wants to further professionalize on the way to this goal."

Sebastian Münzenmaier, currently the vice-chairman of the AfD's federal parliamentary group and deputy state chairman, is seeking election as the new state chairman. Bollinger is expected to take on a vice-chairman role within the executive board. The party also plans to introduce the position of general secretary, with state parliament member Damian Lohr being the designated candidate.

Meanwhile, approximately 70 people peacefully protested against the AfD outside the convention, according to police reports. The AfD currently holds 24 seats in the Rhineland-Palatinate state parliament and claims over 5,000 members in the region. Bollinger, 49, has led the party since 2022 and previously led its state parliamentary group campaign, though he lost his leadership of the faction after an internal power struggle.

“

The party wants to further professionalize on the way to this goal.