Harry Hegenbarth Deploys Germany's First AI Avatar for Bensheim Mayoral Campaign

Independent mayoral candidate Harry Hegenbarth has launched "Digital Harry," the first interactive AI video‑avatar used by a German candidate. The avatar went live on 25 July 2026 on the candidate’s website and answers voter questions around the clock in 28 languages, either spoken or via chat.

The system is built on a curated knowledge base containing only information approved by Hegenbarth, covering his biography, policy positions and local issues. It includes a transparent AI label to meet EU AI‑Regulation requirements and complies with GDPR, having been developed by KLINK AI Consulting of Büttelborn. The underlying technology won the Fraunhofer IAO’s Virtual Avatar & Persona Challenge in April 2026. The Bensheim mayoral election is scheduled for 16 August 2026.