In an event organized by the Kreisjugendring and the Süddeutsche Zeitung, candidates for the 2026 municipal election in Freising were invited to engage with a predominantly young audience, highlighting the importance of open debate in a democratic society. Professor Eva Feldmann-Wojtachnia emphasized that disagreements are essential for democracy and that avoiding conflict leads to dissatisfaction among citizens. The candidates, consisting of male and female representatives from various political parties, appeared calm, even though no distinctly controversial topics emerged for debate during the discussion.

Among the candidates present were the current district administrator Helmut Petz from the Free Voters, alongside challengers from the CSU, Greens, SPD, FDP, ÖDP/Volt, and local party Freising für alle. Absentees included Samuel Fosso from Freisinger Mitte due to a business trip and Richard Paukner from the AfD, who had reportedly opted out of attending. The forum aimed to allow young voters to direct the discourse on pressing issues like public transport and education, reflecting the interests and priorities of the younger demographic in Freising.

As the election approaches, the engagement of younger voters is increasingly crucial, demonstrating a shift in the landscape of municipal politics. Understanding their perspectives could be vital not only for the candidates' campaigns but also for the future direction of local governance. As issues such as transportation infrastructure and educational policy take center stage, how the candidates respond to these subjects might define their electoral viability, emphasizing the importance ofthis dialogue with younger constituents.