Recent polling data indicates a shift in German voter sentiment, with the conservative CDU/CSU bloc experiencing a notable decline in support. The latest ARD “Deutschlandtrend” survey, conducted between August 4th and 6th among 1,321 eligible voters, places support for the CDU/CSU at 27 percent, a three-point decrease since early July.
The right-wing populist AfD continues to demonstrate strong support, achieving 24 percent – matching its highest level recorded in the April 2025 poll. Support for the Social Democrats (SPD) remains stable at 13 percent, as do the Green Party and The Left at 12 and 10 percent respectively.
Smaller parties, including the BSW (currently at 3 percent, down one point) and the Free Democratic Party (FDP) at 4 percent (up one point), are not currently projected to meet the threshold for parliamentary representation.
Overall satisfaction with the current governing coalition has decreased significantly. The government now receives a satisfaction rating of 29 percent, down 10 points, representing its lowest level since taking office. A substantial majority, 69 percent, expresses dissatisfaction or lack of satisfaction with the performance of the CDU/CSU and SPD.
CDU leader Friedrich Merz has also experienced a decline in positive ratings, with 32 percent currently expressing satisfaction with his performance – a 10-point decrease from July. Two-thirds (65 percent) register dissatisfaction. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) continues to maintain the highest approval rating within the cabinet at 60 percent, although down one point.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) remains at 31 percent satisfaction (down one point), while Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) receives a 26 percent approval rating (down six points). Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) holds steady at 30 percent, with 53 percent voicing disapproval. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) has 26 percent satisfaction (down three) and faces 53 percent dissatisfaction.
CSU Chairman Markus Söder is viewed positively by 38 percent of respondents (up three points). AfD co-leader Alice Weidel receives a 24 percent satisfaction rating (down two points), with 68 percent expressing dissatisfaction.
The Left’s co-leader Jan van Aken has a 14 percent approval rating (up eight points), although a significant proportion (55 percent) remain unfamiliar with him or unwilling to offer an opinion. Green Party co-leader Katharina Dröge is at 13 percent satisfaction (up one point), with 56% unfamiliar or unable to judge.