The Königlich Privilegierte Hauptschützengesellschaft München (HSG), a historic shooting association in Munich, has a legacy dating back to 1406, originally responsible for the city's defense and now celebrated for its elite sports shooters. Recently, the association's chairman, Stephan Bichlmeir, sent out an email to its approximately 700 members regarding the upcoming local elections on March 8, 2026. In the communication, he emphasized the importance of having city council members who can advocate for the interests of shooters.

In line with past practices, the HSG is endorsing candidates for the municipal elections, which has raised eyebrows due to the inclusion of a candidate from the far-right AfD party. This decision has sparked a discussion about the association's role in local politics and how it balances its historical identity with contemporary political dynamics. The AfD has faced criticism for its positions, and the recommendation of its member raises questions about the association's values and inclusivity.

As the elections approach, community reactions might influence the relevance of such endorsements. The HSG's decisions could have broader implications for how traditional organizations engage with political entities, especially those with controversial reputations. The association's leadership may need to navigate member sentiments while ensuring their interests are represented in local governance, making this an important issue as the political landscape evolves leading up to the election date.