The recent surge in support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has prompted reactions of concern from politicians within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD). Sebastian Roloff, SPD parliamentary group’s spokesperson for economic policy, stated in an interview with “Handelsblatt” that the high level of approval for the AfD is “deeply unsettling”. He attributed the trend to widespread discontent and anxieties about the future felt by many citizens, particularly given the current challenging economic climate. Roloff emphasized the political responsibility to restore optimism through sustainable economic recovery.
Dennis Radtke, head of the CDU’s workers’ wing, characterized the situation as a “massive crisis of trust” in democratic institutions. He underscored the need for politicians to carefully manage expectations, refine communication strategies and prioritize relevant issue selection. Radtke highlighted a concerning shift whereby migration has become a focal point for projecting broader societal frustrations. He pointed to economic difficulties, rapidly rising rents, the increasing difficulty of securing property ownership and the feeling of financial strain despite hard work as key drivers of this discontent. Radtke warned that a failure to address these issues could lead to significant changes in the political landscape following upcoming elections, particularly in eastern Germany.
Recent polling data from the Allensbach Institute confirms the AfD’s ascent, indicating a new high in support. This follows similar reports from other polling organizations. The growth is most pronounced in eastern Germany, where a recent Infratest Dimap survey for NDR reveals the AfD garnering 38% support in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – double its share in the 2021 state election. The SPD, currently led by Minister-President Manuela Schwesig, is projected to receive only 19% in that same region, while the CDU is expected to secure 13%.