The municipal elections in Styria, Austria, mark a significant political moment as 284 communities, excluding Graz, head to the polls.

This is the first major test for the new FPÖ-ÖVP coalition government, with FPÖ leader Mario Kunasek serving as the state’s first far-right governor.

The FPÖ aims to expand its influence, targeting its first mayoral positions, while the ÖVP seeks to maintain its dominance as the leading mayoral party.

Meanwhile, the SPÖ, now in opposition for the first time since 1945, hopes to retain its urban strongholds under new leader Max Lercher.

The elections also highlight challenges in candidate recruitment, with no party fielding candidates in all municipalities.

Voter turnout, which dropped to 62.6% in 2020, remains a concern.

Results will be closely watched as a barometer for the political landscape in Styria and beyond.