Vienna, Austria — April 17, 2026
Martha Schultz, a tourism expert from Tyrol, was elected president of the ÖVP Economic Association (ÖVP-Wirtschaftsbund) on Friday with an overwhelming 99.3% of the vote.
Landslide Victory in Vienna
Schultz secured 169 out of 170 possible votes from delegates gathered in Vienna, marking a decisive mandate for her leadership. The election followed the early resignation of her predecessor, Harald Mahrer, and was overseen by election official Peter Haubner.
"Du hättest dich ruhig selber wählen können," Haubner quipped during the proceedings, highlighting the near-unanimous support for Schultz. The remark underscored the confidence delegates placed in her candidacy.
A New Chapter for the Wirtschaftsbund
Schultz, who has deep roots in Tyrol's tourism industry, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming backing. In her acceptance speech, she described feeling "überwältigt" (overwhelmed) by the result. Her election signals a potential shift in focus for the Wirtschaftsbund, which plays a key role in shaping Austria's economic policies.
The association, closely aligned with the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), has historically advocated for business-friendly policies. Schultz's background in tourism could bring fresh perspectives to discussions on regional economic development and sustainability.