balazska

We want to decide our own future, our own destiny! Go Hungary! Go North Pest!

All we want is the right to decide about our own lives and our own fate, and on this we will not compromise. Both in the East and in the West there are those who refuse to accept that we Hungarians are like this. They use every possible means to trample on Hungary’s sovereignty. Our task, however, is to defeat these forces and these people—whether it is a blackmailing president-comedian making life-threatening threats, a European Union leader completely detached from reality, or even a domestically acting clown bought from abroad—and to keep them away from power.

In the next four weeks, we have only one task: to follow the path set by the fighters of 1848. We must fight for Hungarian sovereignty and for the electoral victory of the national forces, because as long as Hungary has a national government, the protection of Hungarian interests will certainly come first.

Tomorrow: the Peace March.
In four weeks: a great victory.
In four years: a renewed, proud, and flourishing North Pest.

Thank you very much for listening.

1️⃣ National sovereignty narrative

(sovereignty framing / national identity framing)

Excerpt

“We want to decide about our own future, our own fate!”

Technique

The communication frames the political debate as a question of national self-determination.

Key elements

  • “we want to decide”
  • “our own future”
  • “our own fate”

Goal

➡️ to elevate the election into a question of national independence
➡️ to trigger emotional identification

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • those who support the message → stand on the national side
  • those who oppose it → are working against sovereignty

2️⃣ Construction of an external enemy

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“There are those both in the East and in the West… who want to trample Hungary’s sovereignty into the ground.”

Technique

The communication identifies external forces as a threat.

Typical elements

  • “in the East and in the West”
  • “refuse to accept”
  • “trample sovereignty”

Goal

➡️ to create a common enemy
➡️ to strengthen internal unity

Effect

The audience may develop the perception that:

  • “external forces are attacking the country”
  • “we must close ranks”

3️⃣ Demonization of opponents

(demonization / delegitimization)

Excerpt

“a blackmailing, life-threatening president-comedian”
“an EU leader completely detached from reality”
“a domestically bought puppet financed from abroad”

Technique

Opponents are described using negative labels and mocking expressions.

This is a classic propaganda tool:

  • personal attacks
  • delegitimization

Goal

➡️ to undermine the legitimacy of the opponent
➡️ to strengthen emotional rejection

Effect

Readers judge opponents not based on programs or policies, but reject them on moral grounds.


4️⃣ “Us vs. them” framing

(ingroup–outgroup framing)

Excerpt

“we, Hungarians”
“these forces… must be defeated”

Technique

The communication divides the world into two opposing camps.

US

  • Hungarians
  • national forces

THEM

  • foreign forces
  • EU leaders
  • the “bought” opposition

Goal

➡️ identity-based political mobilization
➡️ sharp separation of political camps

Effect

The reader finds it easier to choose a side.


5️⃣ Historical reference

(historical symbolism framing)

Excerpt

“to follow the path set by the fighters of 1848”

Technique

The political campaign is linked to one of the most iconic struggles for freedom in Hungarian history.

This functions as a powerful emotional symbol.

Goal

➡️ to elevate the political struggle to historical significance
➡️ to provide symbolic legitimacy

Effect

The election is framed as a continuation of a freedom struggle.


6️⃣ Combat rhetoric

(mobilization framing)

Excerpt

“we must fight”
“we will defeat them”
“we will not give in”

Technique

Politics is presented as a battle or struggle.

Goal

➡️ mobilization
➡️ motivation of activists

Effect

The audience may feel:

  • urgency
  • a strong impulse to act

7️⃣ Projection of a victory narrative

(inevitability framing / victory narrative)

Excerpt

“In four weeks… a great victory.”

Technique

The communication portrays its own side as already winning.

Goal

➡️ to exploit the bandwagon effect
➡️ to influence undecided voters

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “they will win anyway”
  • “it makes sense to belong to the winning side”

8️⃣ Mass mobilization

(collective action framing)

Excerpt

“Tomorrow: Peace March.”

Technique

The communication links the political message to a specific public event.

Goal

➡️ physical mobilization
➡️ demonstrating the strength of the crowd

Effect

The message encourages direct participation and action.


Summary

The text follows a classic campaign rhetoric structure:

  • emphasis on national sovereignty
  • construction of external enemies
  • demonization of opponents
  • “us vs. them” identity framing
  • use of historical symbolism
  • combat-style mobilization rhetoric
  • projection of a victory narrative
  • mass political mobilization

This rhetorical combination is very typical in election campaigns, because it simultaneously appeals to:

  • emotions
  • identity
  • group loyalty
  • willingness to act.

balazska

🇩🇪 Latest fuel prices from Germany❗️
2.5 euros – that is about 1,000 forints per liter for regular diesel and 95-octane petrol!

☝️ Meanwhile, Bild conducted a survey, and the results are quite telling.

They reveal a lot about how dissatisfied German voters—who are kept on a short leash by the liberal media—have already become with the clumsy performance of the Friedrich Merz–led grand coalition ❗️

📍 Do you think the German government is doing enough to reduce fuel prices?
👉 75% NO ❌

📍 Do you think taxes on fuel should be reduced in Germany?
👉 76% YES ✅

📍 Do you think oil companies’ excess profits should be taken away in a situation like this?
👉 68% YES ✅

🇩🇪 The German political elite is desperately clinging to power, even though it has long since failed.
Moreover, they are dragging not only Germany but all of Europe toward the brink…

☝️ The “achievements” of the past 10 years:

  • they let migrants in,
  • by banning nuclear energy and then Russian energy, they are destroying the economy,
  • with war plans they are taking away the future of the young,
  • and they are unable to handle the crises of this dangerous era.

❗️That is why we must continue along the Hungarian path, and not align ourselves with the Berlin–Brussels dictates, as the Tisza Party would do.

P.S.: 🇭🇺 I received the photo from a Hungarian man living in Germany who was on his way home yesterday to the Peace March. ✌️🇭🇺👍

1️⃣ Selective framing of reality (selective framing)

Excerpt
“Fresh fuel prices from Germany: €2.5 per liter.”

Technique
The communication highlights a single striking data point (high fuel price), but does not provide full context.

For example, the following factors are omitted:

  • global oil market dynamics
  • geopolitical conflicts
  • differences in tax structures
  • the European energy transition
  • exchange-rate effects

Goal

➡️ to attribute high prices to a single political cause.

Effect

The reader may develop the impression that:

“the German government is responsible for everything.”


2️⃣ External blame (scapegoating)

Excerpt
“German voters kept on a short leash by the liberal media.”

Technique

The communication constructs an enemy image:

  • “liberal media”
  • “Berlin elite”

This is a classic form of political scapegoating.

Goal

➡️ simplify complex economic processes
➡️ blame a political opponent

Effect

The reader may more easily accept a simplified explanation:

“everything is the elite’s fault.”


3️⃣ Appeal to public opinion (bandwagon framing)

Excerpt

“75% no”
“76% yes”
“68% yes”

Technique

The text suggests that:

➡️ the majority has already decided what the correct position is.

This is the classic bandwagon effect.

Goal

to influence undecided readers.

Effect

The reader may feel:

“If most people think this way, it must be true.”


4️⃣ Construction of a crisis narrative (crisis framing)

Excerpt

“They are leading all of Germany — and even all of Europe — toward the abyss.”

Technique

The communication uses dramatic language.

Key words:

  • “abyss”
  • “crisis”
  • “incompetence”

Goal

➡️ dramatize the political situation
➡️ suggest an urgent need for change.


5️⃣ Simplified cause-and-effect narrative (causal oversimplification)

Excerpt

“Banning nuclear energy and Russian energy is destroying the economy.”

Technique

A very complex economic issue is reduced to a single cause.

In reality, energy prices are influenced by many factors, including:

  • global oil prices
  • the LNG market
  • geopolitics
  • inflation
  • taxes
  • exchange rates

Goal

➡️ create a simple and easily understandable political narrative.


6️⃣ Construction of a national alternative (national path framing)

Excerpt

“This is why we must continue on the Hungarian path.”

Technique

The communication divides the world into two camps:

  • the “Hungarian path”
  • “Brussels diktats”

This is binary political framing.

Goal

➡️ turn political choice into a matter of identity.


7️⃣ Strengthening the appearance of authenticity (authenticity framing)

Excerpt

“I received the photo from a Hungarian man living in Germany.”

Technique

Mentioning a personal source suggests:

➡️ “real, spontaneous information.”

This is a common communication device in social media.


Factors omitted from the narrative (as you pointed out)

The text does not mention the global oil market, for example:

  • Middle Eastern conflicts
  • oil shipping routes
  • geopolitical tensions
  • OPEC policy
  • the dollar–oil relationship

From a communication perspective, this is known as:

agenda setting + omission

In other words:

➡️ what is left out is also part of the message.

When certain factors are not mentioned, readers are more likely to accept a simplified political explanation.


Summary

The text uses several classic political communication techniques:

  • selective framing
  • scapegoating
  • bandwagon effect
  • crisis narrative
  • simplified cause-and-effect reasoning
  • national alternative framing
  • authenticity signaling

The core mechanism of the communication:

➡️ turning a complex economic phenomenon into a simple political story.

balazska

The sober majority knows exactly what is at stake: we want to stay out of the war, and we do not want to send Hungarians’ money to Ukraine! 👍

There is a Fidesz stand in Újpalota. A Tisza stand. This is what it looks like. No one can say it was just a moment taken out of context. We are now half an hour later. At the Tisza stand, there is currently a lady there. Let me show you the Fidesz stand. Balázs Barkóczi is the real strong candidate on the Brussels side here. He has to be defeated, and we will defeat him and build momentum in North Pest.

1️⃣ The “sensible majority” narrative
(bandwagon framing / majority framing)

Excerpt

“The sensible majority knows exactly what is at stake.”

Technique

The communication suggests that
➡️ “normal” people have already decided what the correct position is.

Keyword

“sensible majority”

Goal

  • to pressure undecided voters
  • to create the impression that the majority is already on this side

Effect

Readers may feel that:

  • “most people think this way”
  • “I don’t want to be in the minority”

2️⃣ Dramatizing existential stakes

(high-stakes framing / fear framing)

Excerpt

“we want to stay out of the war”

Technique

The election is framed not as a normal political competition but as
➡️ a question of war or peace.

Goal

  • to trigger an emotional reaction
  • to dramatize the importance of the election

Effect

Readers may feel:

  • “if we choose wrong, there will be war”

3️⃣ External enemy narrative

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“we don’t want Hungarian money sent to Ukraine”

Technique

The communication sets up a contrast between a foreign actor and Hungarian interests.

Narrative

Hungarian interests
vs
Ukrainian interests

Goal

  • to trigger emotional identification
  • to simplify the political conflict

4️⃣ Presenting visual “evidence”

(visual framing / anecdotal evidence)

Excerpt

“No one can say this was just a moment taken out of context. We are half an hour later.”

Technique

The communication presents a specific situation as general evidence.

Rhetorically this is:

➡️ anecdotal proof

Goal

  • to suggest that one side is more popular
  • to provide visual confirmation

Effect

People tend to treat a single observed scene as proof of a broader trend.


5️⃣ Delegitimizing the opponent

(political labeling / enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Barkoci Balázs is the real strong candidate on the Brussels side.”

Technique

The opponent is associated with an external power.

Keyword

“Brussels side”

Goal

  • to portray the opponent as acting against national interests
  • to simplify the political choice

6️⃣ Preparing a victory narrative

(inevitability framing)

Excerpt

“He must be defeated, and we will defeat him.”

Technique

The communication speaks about a certain future victory already in the present.

Goal

  • to energize supporters
  • to create the image of a winning side

Effect

People are often inclined to join what appears to be the winning side.


Summary

The text represents classic campaign communication, built mainly on:

  • a majority narrative (“the sensible majority”)
  • war-related fear framing
  • an external enemy (Ukraine / Brussels)
  • visual anecdotal evidence
  • delegitimization of the opponent
  • a victory narrative

This type of communication relies primarily on emotional and identity-based mobilization, rather than on detailed policy programs or concrete policy arguments.

alexa

No one may do such a thing to any Hungarian.

It is unacceptable that a former Ukrainian intelligence officer has once again threatened Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his family simply because the national government consistently represents the interests of the Hungarian people, not those of Ukraine.

Hryhoriy Omelchenko, a former general of Ukrainian intelligence — who a few days ago already issued death threats against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, including his children and grandchildren — has now made further unacceptable statements.

The former intelligence officer is demanding that Hungary support EU funding for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. He claims that if Viktor Orbán does not do so, his life could “end unexpectedly and tragically,” and that his “innocent relatives,” including his children, could also suffer.

Omelchenko even added that the Slovak prime minister “experienced what karma is when he was hit by five bullets,” implying that Viktor Orbán and Péter Szijjártó may face a similar fate if they do not align themselves with Ukraine.

Such threats against Hungary are unacceptable and intolerable.

It is clearly visible that President Zelensky and the Ukrainian leadership will stop at nothing in order to achieve their political goals and to ensure that, in April, a pro-Ukraine government comes to power in Hungary.

While President Zelensky is endangering Hungary’s and Hungarian families’ energy security by using the blockade of the Druzhba oil pipeline as a tool of political pressure, a former Ukrainian intelligence leader is openly threatening Hungary’s prime minister and his family.

Hungary cannot be blackmailed.

Whether President Zelensky and the Ukrainian leadership like it or not, Hungary will stay out of the war. We will not send the Hungarian people’s money to Ukraine, and we will not give up cheap energy either.

For us, Hungary comes first.

Fidesz is the safe choice.

1️⃣ Building moral outrage
(moral outrage framing)

Excerpt

“No one can do such a thing against any Hungarian.”
“Such threats are unacceptable and impermissible.”

Technique

The text opens with a moral statement, immediately setting the “correct” emotional reaction for the audience.

Goal

  • to emotionally engage the reader immediately
  • to create a sense of moral consensus

Effect

The reader may feel that
➡️ anyone who disagrees is “against Hungarians.”


2️⃣ Constructing an external enemy

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Ukrainian intelligence officer”
“Ukrainian leadership”
“President Zelensky”

Technique

The communication builds the image of an external enemy threatening the country.

Key elements

  • Ukraine
  • Ukrainian intelligence services
  • foreign pressure

Goal

  • to trigger national unity
  • to present the political conflict as an international threat

Effect

The reader may feel:

➡️ “Hungary is under attack.”


3️⃣ Dramatisation of the threat

(fear framing / threat amplification)

Excerpt

“his life could end unexpectedly and tragically”
“his innocent relatives and children could also suffer”

Technique

The text emphasizes life-threatening danger, triggering a strong emotional reaction.

Goal

  • to evoke fear
  • to maximize the perceived seriousness of the conflict

Effect

The reader may feel:

➡️ “This is no longer politics — it’s a matter of life and death.”


4️⃣ Expanding guilt

(guilt by association)

Excerpt

“It is clear that President Zelensky and the Ukrainian leadership will stop at nothing…”

Technique

An individual statement (by Omelchenko) is linked to the entire Ukrainian leadership.

Goal

  • to strengthen the enemy narrative
  • to imply collective responsibility of the Ukrainian leadership

Effect

In the reader’s mind the following association may form:

➡️ “Ukraine is threatening Hungary.”


5️⃣ Energy security threat narrative

(economic security framing)

Excerpt

“by blocking the Druzhba oil pipeline they are endangering Hungary’s energy security”

Technique

The conflict is reframed as a daily economic and livelihood issue.

Key elements

  • cheap energy
  • families
  • energy security

Goal

To connect a geopolitical conflict directly to household concerns.

Effect

The reader may feel:

➡️ “This affects my wallet.”


6️⃣ National sovereignty narrative

(sovereignty framing)

Excerpt

“Hungary cannot be blackmailed.”

Technique

The conflict is framed as a question of national independence.

Goal

To present the government’s position as the defense of national interests.

Effect

The reader may feel:

➡️ “Anyone opposing this is opposing sovereignty.”


7️⃣ “We protect – they threaten” narrative

(protector vs threat framing)

Excerpt

“Hungary will stay out of the war.”
“we will not send the Hungarian people’s money to Ukraine”

Technique

The communication creates two roles:

we: the side of peace and protection
they: the side of war and pressure

Goal

To turn the election into a security decision.


8️⃣ Campaign closing message

(electoral call-to-action framing)

Excerpt

“Fidesz is the safe choice.”

Technique

At the end of the narrative a political voting recommendation appears as the logical conclusion.

Goal

After emotional framing, to guide the reader toward a concrete political decision.


Summary

The text builds a classic political mobilization narrative:

  • moral outrage
  • external enemy
  • life-threatening danger
  • energy security risk
  • national sovereignty
  • peace vs war framing
  • electoral conclusion

This is a typical campaign communication structure, which leads the reader to the political message through emotional framing.

alexa

We already know the Tisza Party’s true face: “they don’t tell people everything, because then they would fail,” but if they win the election, “after that, anything goes.”
What is at stake in this election is who will lead our country in an increasingly tense global political situation. Péter Magyar is colluding with Zelensky’s circle, and if he came to power, he would give in to every Ukrainian and Brussels demand. Viktor Orbán, on the other hand, has always stood up for Hungarian interests and has been able to say no to blackmail. This also shows that only Fidesz is the safe choice!

These are the Tisza Party people. In fact, those last two are parliamentary candidates who say that the beginning will be very shaky, and they admit that they are not telling people everything, because otherwise they would fail. So this is the true face of the Tisza Party, this is their real economic program, and this is the lying: not telling everything because otherwise they would fail. But first, they have to win the election, and after that, anything goes. It is just not necessary to explain right now what exactly that “anything” would mean. So that is about how much you can believe anything they say. A great many things could be done, and should be done. The election has to be won, and after that, anything goes. The first two years will be very shaky.

I really could say much more about what is at stake in this election. But what I would truly like to ask of you is that you think it through in terms of your own lives: what your life would look like, and what your children’s lives would look like, five or ten years from now, if under these conditions that we now have to live with, in terms of world politics, Hungary’s prime minister were not Viktor Orbán, but Péter Magyar. Because in truth, that is what this election is about: whether in the current situation this country is led by Viktor Orbán, who has always stood up for the Hungarian people and has always been able to say no to those who threatened Hungarian interests, or by a fortune hunter who would gladly lie his way all the way into the prime minister’s chair, if we let him.

Propaganda and Influence Techniques in Alexa’s Speech

1️⃣ “Revealing the True Face” Narrative

(exposure framing / moral condemnation framing)

Excerpt

“We already know the true face of the Tisza Party…”

Technique

The communication claims that the opponent has already been “exposed” and their real intentions are proven.

Key elements

  • “true face”
  • “we already know”

This is a classic political rhetorical device:
➡️ closing the debate before the arguments even begin

Goal

  • immediate destruction of the opponent’s credibility
  • triggering moral rejection in the audience

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “they have already been exposed”
  • “there’s nothing to consider anymore”

2️⃣ Discrediting Through Selective Quotes

(selective quoting / framing)

Excerpt

“they don’t say everything because then they would fail”
“after winning the election everything becomes possible”

Technique

The communication builds the entire character of the opponent from a few selected quotes.

Method

  • quote taken out of context
  • adding an interpretive frame
  • drawing a moral conclusion

Goal

  • to suggest that the opponent is deliberately lying to voters

Effect

The reader may start thinking:

  • “they are hiding something”
  • “they are deceiving people”

3️⃣ Dramatisation of the Election’s Stakes

(high-stakes framing)

Excerpt

“The stakes of the election are who will lead our country in this increasingly tense global political situation.”

Technique

The election is framed not as a normal political decision but as a geopolitical survival question.

Key elements

  • “increasingly tense global political situation”
  • “who will lead the country”

Goal

➡️ maximize the perceived importance of the election

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “a historic decision is coming”
  • “we cannot take risks”

4️⃣ Linking the Opponent to an External Enemy

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Péter Magyar is cooperating with Zelensky.”

Technique

The opponent is connected to external political actors.

This is a classic political communication pattern:

domestic opponent = representative of foreign interests

Key elements

  • Zelensky
  • Brussels

Goal

  • to portray the opponent as acting against national interests

Effect

The reader may interpret this as:

  • “he does not represent Hungarian interests”
  • “he serves foreign interests”

5️⃣ National Protector Narrative

(protector framing)

Excerpt

“Viktor Orbán has always stood up for Hungarian interests.”

Technique

The communication places the governing side into a hero-protector role.

Narrative

  • Orbán = protector
  • opponent = servant of others

Goal

  • strengthening loyalty
  • creating the image of a stable leader

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “he protects the country”
  • “he should not be replaced”

6️⃣ Delegitimising the Opponent Through Personal Attack

(character assassination)

Excerpt

“a fortune seeker who would lie his way to the prime minister’s chair”

Technique

The opponent is presented not as a political rival but as a morally untrustworthy individual.

Key elements

  • “fortune seeker”
  • “liar”

Goal

➡️ destroying personal credibility

Effect

The reader:

  • focuses less on policies or programs
  • rejects the person instead

7️⃣ Binary Choice Narrative

(false dilemma framing)

Excerpt

“Either Viktor Orbán leads the country… or Péter Magyar.”

Technique

The communication simplifies the election into two extreme options.

Structure

stable leader
VS
dishonest opportunist

Goal

  • turning the election into a moral choice

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “either security or chaos”

8️⃣ Fear-Based Future Framing

(fear appeal)

Excerpt

“think about what your life will look like in five or ten years”

Technique

The communication uses uncertainty about the future to evoke fear.

Goal

➡️ triggering an emotional decision

Effect

The reader may prefer:

  • avoiding risk
  • choosing the current leadership

Summary

The text follows a classic campaign-communication structure:

  1. “Exposing” the opponent
  2. Discrediting through selective quotes
  3. Dramatising the stakes of the election
  4. Linking the opponent to external enemies
  5. Presenting the government as national protector
  6. Personal credibility attacks
  7. Creating a binary political choice
  8. Mobilising voters through fear

The main objective of this communication is:

➡️ emotional mobilisation
➡️ delegitimising the opponent
➡️ creating a security vs. danger narrative.

alexa

One month before the election, we are in the lead; Hungarians know what is at stake and whom they can count on. While Péter Magyar has struck a deal with Zelenskyy, Viktor Orbán is standing firm against the oil blockade and has introduced a protected fuel price.

On April 12, Fidesz is the safe choice!

It is 46–41 for Fidesz according to their latest public opinion poll, and 67% of people support the protected fuel price. People know exactly which party serves Hungarian interests and which one serves Ukrainian interests.

1️⃣ Building a Winning Narrative

(bandwagon framing / inevitability framing)

Excerpt

“We are leading one month before the elections…”

Technique

Right in the opening sentence, the communication suggests that
➡️ the outcome of the election is practically already decided.

Key elements

  • “we are leading”
  • “one month before the elections”

This is the classic bandwagon effect (joining the winner).

Goal

  • influence undecided voters
  • create the perception of being on the winning side

Effect

The reader may develop the feeling that:

  • “they will win anyway”
  • “it’s worth joining the winning side”

2️⃣ Dramatising the National Stakes

(high-stakes framing)

Excerpt

“Hungarians know what is at stake”

Technique

The election is framed not as a normal political decision, but as a historically significant turning point.

Key elements

  • “what is at stake”
  • collective reference to “Hungarians”

Goal

  • amplify the perceived importance of the election
  • increase emotional engagement

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • “this is a decisive election”
  • “a position must be taken now”

3️⃣ Construction of an Enemy Image

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Péter Magyar has made a deal with Zelensky”

Technique

The opponent is portrayed as a political actor collaborating with foreign interests.

Key elements

  • “made a deal”
  • “Zelensky”

This is a classic external enemy narrative.

Goal

  • weaken the legitimacy of the opponent
  • frame the conflict as national vs. foreign interests

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “the opposition serves foreign interests”
  • “the government protects Hungarian interests”

4️⃣ Image of the Protective Leader

(protector leadership framing)

Excerpt

“Viktor Orbán does not give in to the oil blockade and introduced a protected price.”

Technique

The leader is portrayed as a national protector.

Key elements

  • “does not give in”
  • “protected price”

This is the protector narrative.

Goal

  • create the image of a strong and decisive leader
  • legitimize economic policy decisions

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • “Orbán protects the country”
  • “the government stands up against external pressure”

5️⃣ The “Safe Choice” Narrative

(certainty framing)

Excerpt

“Fidesz is the safe choice.”

Technique

The election is framed as security vs. risk.

Key elements

  • “safe”
  • implicit contrast: “uncertain”

Goal

  • appeal to risk-averse voters
  • promise stability

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “it’s better to choose the safe option”

6️⃣ Legitimisation Through Numbers

(statistical persuasion)

Excerpt

“46–41 for Fidesz… 67% support the protected fuel price.”

Technique

The use of percentages and numbers strengthens the appearance of majority support.

Key elements

  • “46–41”
  • “67%”

This is a data-based reinforcement technique.

Goal

  • make the claim appear objective
  • emphasise majority support

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “the majority supports this”

7️⃣ Dividing Society into Two Camps

(ingroup–outgroup framing)

Excerpt

“the one that serves Hungarian interests”
“the one that serves Ukrainian interests”

Technique

The communication divides the political space into two opposing camps:

  • “Hungarian interests”
  • “Ukrainian interests”

Goal

  • create an identity-based political choice
  • strengthen political polarisation

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “if you are not with us, you serve other interests”

Summary

The text combines several classic campaign communication techniques:

Main narratives

  • bandwagon effect (joining the winner)
  • external enemy narrative
  • strong leader image
  • emphasis on majority support
  • security vs. risk framing

Core message

➡️ “Fidesz is leading, the majority supports it, and the government protects Hungary from foreign interests.”

alexa

🚨 The upcoming election may be the last one in which we can decide who will be at the helm if Europe drifts into war.

And Brussels leaders such as Ursula von der Leyen or Manfred Weber appear to be preparing for that possibility. Anyone who believes that talk of war is merely fear-mongering should listen to what the British and French chiefs of staff have said, or most recently what Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated, warning that a third world war could come.

🟠 As long as a national government remains in power, Hungary will stay on the side of peace, and we will not send weapons, money, or soldiers to Ukraine. That is why Fidesz is the only safe choice.

I also often encounter the argument among voters that there is no war here and that all of this is just Fidesz scaremongering — that everything is fine and that we always say people should be afraid of someone. To those who say this, I suggest listening to what several European politicians have said in recent weeks.

Listen to what the British and French chiefs of staff are saying. Listen to what the leadership of the European Union is saying. And don’t believe us — there is no need to believe Fidesz — believe those European leaders who are talking about the possibility that by 2029 Europe could be at war.

I believe the time has come for those who bear responsibility in Europe to face that responsibility. Europe is preparing for this possibility. Leaders, governments, and institutions are all discussing how to prepare, how to support Ukraine, and how to respond if necessary.

Let me add one more thing. Zelenskyy himself recently said that he believes there is a strong chance that a third world war could come. European leaders are calculating with this scenario.

And the election ahead of us may be the last one where we can decide who will be at the helm in such a dangerous time, if this truly happens. Europe is preparing for it — and we must decide who will lead Hungary if that moment comes.


1️⃣ Construction of an existential threat

(fear framing / existential threat framing)

Excerpt

“This will be the last election when we can decide who will be at the helm if Europe is dragged into war.”

Technique

The election is presented not as a normal political choice but as a historic turning point.
The communication uses the possibility of a future war to dramatically raise the stakes.

Key elements

  • “last election”
  • “Europe is dragged into war”
  • “dangerous times”

Goal

➡️ evoke fear
➡️ maximize the perceived importance of the election
➡️ mobilize uncertain voters

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “everything will be decided now”
  • “this is a matter of survival”

2️⃣ Construction of an external enemy

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Brussels leaders such as von der Leyen or Weber are preparing for this.”

Technique

The communication presents the conflict as the intentional plan of external powers.

Key elements

  • “Brussels”
  • EU leaders
  • preparation for war

Goal

➡️ strengthen the sovereignty narrative
➡️ create a “us vs. them” framework

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “Brussels poses a danger to Hungary”
  • “the country must be defended”

3️⃣ Appeal to authority

(appeal to authority)

Excerpt

“Listen to what the British and French chiefs of staff have said.”

Technique

The text refers to military leaders and political figures to make the claim appear more credible.

Key elements

  • British chief of staff
  • French chief of staff
  • Zelensky

Goal

➡️ legitimize the claim
➡️ create the impression that this is not propaganda but fact

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “if military leaders say this, the situation must be serious”

4️⃣ Binary framing of the political choice

(binary framing / false dilemma)

Excerpt

“Fidesz is the only safe choice.”

Technique

The communication simplifies the political landscape into two options:

  • Fidesz = peace
  • others = war

Goal

➡️ delegitimize alternatives
➡️ simplify the electoral choice

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “if I want peace, there is only one option”

5️⃣ Pre-emptive neutralization of opposing views

(pre-emptive rebuttal)

Excerpt

“Many people say this is just scaremongering…”

Technique

The text anticipates criticism and then weakens it.

Structure

  1. present the criticism
  2. relativize it
  3. reinforce the original claim

Goal

➡️ reduce the impact of counter-arguments
➡️ protect the narrative

Effect

Readers may become more likely to dismiss critical opinions.


6️⃣ National protection narrative

(protector framing)

Excerpt

“As long as there is a national government, Hungary will remain on the side of peace.”

Technique

The communication portrays the government as a protector.

Key elements

  • “national government”
  • “remain on the side of peace”
  • “we will not send weapons”

Goal

➡️ strengthen the legitimacy of the government
➡️ create a sense of security

Effect

The reader may feel:

  • “the government protects us”

Summary

The communication structure of the text:

1️⃣ Fear appeal – Europe may be heading toward war
2️⃣ External enemy – Brussels and Western leaders
3️⃣ Appeal to authority – military leaders
4️⃣ Binary choice – peace vs. war
5️⃣ Pre-emptive neutralization of criticism
6️⃣ Government as protector

This combination is typical election campaign communication, where the core message becomes:

➡️ security vs. danger
➡️ national government vs. external forces

balazska

The country has united! Masses are protesting against Ukrainian threats and blackmail!

Yes, that’s right. The “Let’s Be Lucky” campaign is taking place in Újpalota at the market hall. People keep coming, coming, and coming, and they know exactly what happened again in recent days. The Ukrainians issued life-threatening threats against the Prime Minister and his family. Today, this was confirmed in a fresh statement. People do not want Hungary to be blackmailed, and they do not want Hungary to be threatened. They want us to be able to decide our own fate. And they will act on April 12, and tomorrow at the Peace March as well.

1️⃣ Bandwagon effect and the “everyone is coming” narrative

(bandwagon framing)

Excerpt

“People are coming, coming and coming.”

Technique

The communication suggests that large crowds are already supporting the cause.

Key elements

  • “crowds”
  • “coming and coming”
  • “the country has united”

This is a classic example of the bandwagon effect.

Goal

➡️ increase people’s willingness to join
➡️ create the feeling that this is the majority opinion

Effect

In the reader’s mind it may create thoughts like:

  • “everyone will be there”
  • “I should go too”

People tend to align themselves with the majority.


2️⃣ Creating an external enemy

(external enemy framing)

Excerpt

“Ukrainian threats and blackmail”
“they issued life-threatening threats against the Prime Minister”

Technique

The communication identifies a foreign adversary: Ukraine.

This frames the conflict as an international attack.

Key elements

  • “Ukrainian threats”
  • “blackmail”
  • “life-threatening threats”

Goal

➡️ present the political conflict as national self-defense
➡️ trigger a strong emotional reaction

Effect

In the reader’s mind it may create thoughts such as:

  • “Hungary is under attack”
  • “we must defend ourselves”

3️⃣ National unity narrative

(national unity framing)

Excerpt

“The country has united.”

Technique

The communication suggests that the entire nation shares the same view.

This transforms a political debate into a question of national unity.

Goal

➡️ marginalize opposing political positions
➡️ present the speaker’s position as the national consensus

Effect

Readers may feel that:

  • “this is the shared view of Hungarians”
  • “if someone disagrees, they are outside the community”

4️⃣ Emotional shock and fear appeal

(fear appeal)

Excerpt

“they issued life-threatening threats”

Technique

The communication uses a dramatic and threatening narrative.

The political conflict is therefore framed as an existential danger.

Goal

➡️ trigger fear
➡️ provoke a strong emotional reaction

Effect

People may become more likely to make decisions based on emotion, rather than careful rational evaluation.


5️⃣ “We decide our own fate” narrative

(sovereignty framing)

Excerpt

“They want us to be able to decide our own fate.”

Technique

The political conflict is framed as an issue of national sovereignty.

The choice is presented as:

➡️ national self-determination
vs
➡️ foreign influence

Goal

➡️ elevate the political decision to a question of national survival

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • “the homeland must be defended”
  • “this is more than just politics”

6️⃣ Electoral mobilization

(mobilization framing)

Excerpt

“That is why they will act on April 12 and tomorrow at the Peace March.”

Technique

The text is a clear political mobilization message.

The narrative sequence is:

➡️ crowd
➡️ threat
➡️ national self-defense
➡️ action

Goal

➡️ increase participation
➡️ trigger political engagement

Effect

Readers may feel that:

  • “now is the time to act”
  • “this is a historic moment”

Summary

The text represents classic campaign rhetoric, built on four main tools:

  • Bandwagon effect – “everyone is coming”
  • External enemy – Ukrainian threat
  • National sovereignty narrative
  • Fear + mobilization

This combination is one of the most common mobilization models in modern political communication.

balazska

❗️ ZSOLT TÁRKÁNYI HAS NO PLACE IN PUBLIC LIFE ❗️

Here comes the big liberal–Tisza-style dodging in the case of the Nazi salute. We’ve seen this many times before.

☝️ One could list at length the many cases from the past 16 years when the progressive, supposedly ultra-brilliant liberal “intelligentsia” — who look down on the “provincial” Fidesz and regularly lecture everyone — behaved in a pitiful way. But perhaps the most embarrassing of all are those moments when they end up defending “fascists.”

That is exactly what is happening now with Zsolt Tárkányi from the Tisza Party ❗️

We all remember that for many long years one of the key pillars of the opposition’s (Orbán-hating) politics was to portray Fidesz as an antisemitic, racist, Jew-hating party.

They pushed this narrative 24 hours a day with the enthusiastic help of their servile media.

However, by 2018 at the latest, everyone could see that their so-called “fight against fascists” was a huge sham. After all, they willingly joined forces with Jobbik, a party whose members had called for listing Israeli citizens and had spoken about Jews in offensive and exclusionary terms (“tetűcsúszdások”).

That alliance has continued ever since. In fact, the far-left and the anti-Israel, anti-Jewish attitudes of some Muslim migrant groups no longer seem to bother them either.

As long as Orbán falls… 🤷‍♂️

❗️Of course they also pretend not to notice (or try to silence and downplay by every possible means) that a photo has surfaced of Zsolt Tárkányi — the Tisza Party’s press chief and parliamentary candidate in Debrecen — making a Nazi salute.

“It’s not a salute, maybe he’s just waving,” I read in the liberal/Tisza-aligned press.

Pathetic clowns 🤡

There’s really no point elaborating further:

❗️ ZSOLT TÁRKÁNYI HAS NO PLACE IN PUBLIC LIFE ❗️

1. Immediate moral exclusion

Excerpt: “ZSOLT TÁRKÁNYI HAS NO PLACE IN PUBLIC LIFE”
Technique: It opens not with an argument but with a final judgment. This is classic moral condemnation framing.
Goal: To close the debate from the very beginning so the reader accepts the conclusion through moral outrage rather than evaluation.
Effect: The reader no longer asks what exactly happened, but how the person should be “punished.”

2. Pre-framing: the other side is assumed to be lying

Excerpt: “Here comes the big liberal-Tisza cover-up.”
Technique: Preemptive discrediting. Before the other side even speaks, the text undermines their expected reaction.
Goal: Any later denial, nuance, or context can automatically be framed as “covering up.”
Effect: Readers approach opposing arguments with built-in suspicion.

3. Enemy construction through multiple labels

Excerpt: “liberal,” “Tisza supporter,” “progressive,” “über-genius,” “servant press.”
Technique: Labeling and tribal identification. Instead of discussing individuals, the text constructs a homogeneous and contemptible camp.
Goal: Dehumanize the opponent and create a single enemy bloc.
Effect: The reader no longer sees separate people or cases, only one despised group.

4. Ridicule and contempt as persuasion

Excerpt: “pathetically behaved,” “pathetic clowns.”
Technique: Ridicule framing. Instead of arguments, the text relies on humiliation.
Goal: Not to refute the opponent but to make them appear ridiculous.
Effect: The reader may feel morally superior, which reduces critical thinking.

5. Narrative of historical hypocrisy

Excerpt: “their ‘fight against fascists’ was fake,” “they easily allied with Jobbik.”
Technique: Hypocrisy framing. The central message is not simply that Tárkányi’s case is problematic, but that the entire opposing side is fundamentally hypocritical.
Goal: Embed the current issue within a larger narrative of betrayal and exposure.
Effect: The reader feels that a long-suspected truth has finally been “revealed.”

6. Guilt by association

Excerpt: references to Jobbik, “tetűcsúszdások,” and “Muslim migrants’ anti-Israel and anti-Jewish attitudes.”
Technique: Guilt by association. Several unrelated but emotionally charged issues are linked together.
Goal: Load the opponent with moral blame without directly proving the specific accusation.
Effect: In the reader’s mind, a chain forms: opposition = extremism = antisemitism = hypocrisy.

7. Blurring fact and interpretation

Excerpt: “a Nazi salute photo has surfaced.”
Technique: The strongest interpretation is presented as a fact. While the gesture itself is disputed in media discussions, the text treats it as a settled issue.
Goal: Eliminate uncertainty so there is no room for doubt or nuance.
Effect: The reader internalizes the most severe interpretation as an established fact.

8. Straw-man portrayal of the other side

Excerpt: “This isn’t even a salute, maybe he’s just waving.”
Technique: Straw man + simplification. The opposing argument is caricatured so it can be mocked more easily.
Goal: Discredit the counterargument without presenting it in full.
Effect: Readers encounter a distorted version of the opposing view instead of the real one.

9. Appeal to collective memory

Excerpt: “We all remember…”
Technique: False consensus / manufactured common memory.
Goal: Suggest that the author’s interpretation is universally shared and obvious.
Effect: Those who remember events differently may feel isolated or misinformed.

10. Constant emotional escalation

Tools: all-caps title, exclamation marks, emojis, heated language
Technique: Affective overload.
Goal: Keep the reader in an emotional state so they react rather than analyze.
Effect: The text mobilizes readers instead of informing them.

11. Binary worldview construction

Implicit message: there are “them,” who excuse fascists, and “us,” who speak the truth.
Technique: Black-and-white framing.
Goal: Reduce a complex issue to a moral tribal conflict.
Effect: The middle ground disappears: investigation, context, and proportional judgment vanish.

12. Closing slogan as a political command

Excerpt: “There’s no point elaborating further.”
Technique: Anti-deliberative closure.
Goal: Explicitly shut down further discussion or evaluation.
Effect: The reader is encouraged to treat the case as already settled.

Overall picture

This text is not primarily trying to inform. Instead, it aims to:

  • generate moral outrage,
  • portray the opponent as a hypocritical and immoral bloc,
  • and close the debate before factual evaluation can occur.

The strongest techniques

  • preemptive discrediting
  • enemy construction
  • guilt by association
  • ridicule and humiliation
  • presenting a disputed claim as fact

One-sentence summary:
This is a classic political smear text that uses the current incident as a moral weapon against the entire opposing side rather than attempting to clarify the facts of the case.

balazska and fidesz

Two-thirds of Hungarians support the introduction of a protected price at gas stations. Tisza supporters do not like it; they want to pay market prices!

I have seen all those videos where a journalist, at a Tisza rally — that is, during one of Péter Magyar’s nationwide campaign stops — asks the participants what they think about the protected price, about the fact that the government intervened in fuel prices so that they cannot be sold for more than 5.95 or 6.15, and several of those answering the reporter say that they do not yet know what they think, and that Péter will soon tell them.

Fortunately, a real survey has been conducted, a representative survey, published just a few minutes ago. It says that two-thirds of Hungarians, 67%, support the introduction of the protected price; this is, in fact, what common sense dictates. Opposition voters, Tisza supporters — that Tisza one-third — on the other hand, do not support it.

Once again, this shows — just as in the survey concerning Ukraine’s accession to the European Union — that if Tisza were in power, there would be no protected price. Then people would already have to pay 50 to 60 forints more for fuel than under the protected price. And if Tisza were in power, then, for example, there would also be Ukrainian accession, meaning they would send all of Hungarians’ money to Ukraine. And I could go on listing how many problems a Tisza government would bring upon us, which is why we must not vote for them.

1️⃣ Emphasizing the will of the majority (bandwagon framing)

Excerpt

“Two-thirds of Hungarians support the introduction of a protected price at gas stations.”

Technique

The communication suggests that
➡️ the majority has already decided what the correct position is.

Key elements

  • “two-thirds”
  • “67%”
  • “Hungarians”

This is a classic bandwagon effect.

Goal

  • to make the reader feel that this is the “normal” or mainstream position
  • anyone who disagrees belongs to the minority

Effect

People tend to align themselves with the majority.


2️⃣ Creating an enemy group

Excerpt

“TISZA supporters don’t like it; they want to pay market prices.”

Technique

The communication divides society into two camps:

“Hungarians”
vs.
“TISZA supporters”

This is ingroup–outgroup framing.

Goal

  • strengthen political identity
  • portray the opponent as a separate group

Effect

The audience may start to think in terms of:

  • “us” vs. “them”
  • “they are acting against Hungarian interests”

3️⃣ Portraying the political opponent as incompetent

Excerpt

“We don’t yet know what we think; Péter will soon tell us.”

Technique

Opposition voters are depicted as followers who do not think independently.

This is delegitimization framing.

Goal

To portray the opponent’s supporters as
manipulated people.

Effect

The reader may conclude that:

  • “they don’t think for themselves”
  • “they just repeat what their leader tells them”

4️⃣ The “common sense” argument

Excerpt

“This is what common sense dictates.”

Technique

A political position is presented as an obvious truth.

This is common sense framing.

Goal

  • to shut down debate
  • to portray the opposing position as irrational

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • “if I disagree, I must be unreasonable”

5️⃣ Economic fear appeal

Excerpt

“You would have to pay 50–60 forints more for fuel.”

Technique

The message highlights a specific financial loss.

This is an economic fear appeal.

Goal

To make the issue directly affect the voter’s wallet.

Effect

The reader may think:

  • “life would become more expensive”

6️⃣ Linking it to other controversial issues (issue bundling)

Excerpt

“Ukraine’s EU accession would also happen.”

Technique

One issue (fuel prices) is linked to a completely different political issue.

This is issue bundling.

Goal

To bundle several fears together:

  • fuel prices
  • Ukraine
  • sending money abroad

Effect

A large combined threat narrative forms in the reader’s mind.


7️⃣ Narrative of losing national resources

Excerpt

“All the Hungarian people’s money would be sent to Ukraine.”

Technique

This is a national resource loss narrative.

Goal

To frame the opponent as someone who
does not represent Hungarian interests.

Effect

The reader may feel that:

  • “our money will be taken away”
  • “other countries will get it”

8️⃣ Listing apocalyptic consequences

Excerpt

“How many problems a TISZA government would bring upon us.”

Technique

The opponent coming to power is portrayed as a catastrophe.

This is doom framing.

Goal

To strengthen voter mobilization.

Effect

The election appears as a defensive act against danger.


Summary

The text simultaneously uses:

  • majority pressure
  • economic fear appeals
  • enemy-image construction
  • national resource narratives
  • bundling multiple political issues together

This is typical campaign rhetoric, whose purpose is not detailed policy debate but:

➡️ emotional mobilization
➡️ delegitimizing the opponent
➡️ influencing voting decisions.