How Voting Works

Munich’s local election system gives you real influence. You don’t just choose a party — you can shape the council yourself.

1. Mayor

Voting for Mayor is simple:

• Put one cross next to the candidate of your choice.

2. City Council & District Committee

Here’s where you have real power.

Option A: Vote for One List

• Put one cross at the top of a party list.

• All your votes go to that list automatically.

• Important: Do not mark more than one list header.

This is the simplest option.

Option B: Cumulative Voting ("Kumulieren")

Want to strengthen specific candidates?

• You may give 1, 2, or 3 votes per candidate.

• Write the number (2 or 3) in the circle next to their name.

• You may cross out candidates you do not want to support.

This allows you to prioritise the people you trust most.

Option C: Panachage (Vote Splitting / "Panaschieren")

You can mix candidates from different party lists.

• Give candidates from different lists 1, 2, or 3 votes each.

• You can combine this with cumulative voting.

• You are not required to vote for a single list.

You decide across party lines.

Option D: Build Your Own City Council

You can distribute your votes entirely freely.

• You have up to 80 votes in total.

• You may give each candidate a maximum of 3 votes.

• You can choose candidates across different lists.

No list. No limits beyond the rules. Just your personal selection.

Important Rules

• Maximum 3 votes per candidate – even if a name appears more than once on the ballot.

• If you accidentally give more than 3 votes to one person, only 3 will count (your ballot remains valid).

• Do not write comments, draw, or add markings beyond valid voting marks – otherwise your ballot becomes invalid.

• Do not exceed 80 votes in total (City Council ballot).

• If you make a mistake, you can request a new ballot paper at the polling station.

When in doubt, ask the election staff, they are there to help.