State Chancellery'sPhoto and Video Spending for Wüst Revealed
Unveiling the digits, the State Chancellery dished out a staggering 98,417.64 euros for photographers and camera teams accompanying Minister President Hendrik Wüst (CDU) from January to November 2023. These eye-popping figures were disclosed in response to a dpa probe.
The State Chancellery in Düsseldorf, the capital city of North Rhine-Westphalia, revealed that 120 photography and videography services had been billed for accompanying Wüst's appointments. In certain instances, multiple appointments were categorized as a single service. Initially, the Chancellery estimated the photographer costs to be 61,151.53 euros. However, after incorporating videographic services, the total bill swelled to an additional 37,266.11 euros, settling at 98,417.64 euros by the end of November.
In 2022, the State Chancellery shelled out 79,653.11 euros solely on photographic services for the Prime Minister's appointments.
Critics, including the SPD and FDP opposition, have repeatedly rebuked the photo and video commissions, branding Wüst as the "Insta-President," a tag derived from a popular social media platform.
The State Chancellery retorts that professional photography and videography at appointments or events are crucial for "modern and suitable political communication with increasing emphasis on a digital presence." These images are destined not only for social media but also for the state's digital media libraries.
Some Insights:
The State Chancellery resides in Düsseldorf, the capital city of North Rhine-Westphalia. The CDU-led state government in North Rhine-Westphalia spent 98,400 euros on photography and videography for Minister President Hendrik Wüst's appointments between January and November. This hefty sum is utilized for contemporary and appropriate political communication with a digital focus.
Relevant Sources: Stern.de
