The Alternative for Germany (AfD) continues to lead in voter preference, solidifying its position as the nation’s most popular political force, according to a recent Forsa poll conducted for RTL and n-tv. The survey, encompassing 2,503 respondents between November 2nd and 2nd, places the AfD at 26%, a significant two points ahead of the traditionally dominant Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the CSU, which stand at 24%.
The Social Democrats (SPD) remain in third place with 14%, while the Left party experiences a slight decline, registering 11%. Other parties show minimal shifts in support.
More concerning for the CDU/CSU is the dramatic erosion of public trust. The poll reveals that only 16% of Germans believe the conservative bloc is best equipped to tackle the country’s pressing issues-a new record low. Simultaneously, the AfD has achieved its highest-ever level of perceived competence, reaching 15% and virtually equaling the CDU/CSU’s rating. A stark 49% of respondents expressed a lack of confidence in any party’s ability to effectively govern.
The findings highlight a deepening crisis for CDU leader Friedrich Merz. His approval rating remains stubbornly low, with 72% expressing dissatisfaction with his performance-marking a third consecutive week of historically poor results. Only 25% view his work favorably. Alarmingly, even within the traditional CDU/CSU voter base, support is dwindling, with satisfaction down to 67%.
The data underscores a fundamental disconnect between the conservative establishment and the German electorate, raising critical questions regarding the CDU/CSU’s ability to regain public trust and effectively challenge the AfD’s burgeoning influence. The findings suggest a significant undercurrent of discontent with the status quo and a growing perception that traditional parties are failing to address the concerns of ordinary citizens. The decline in Merz’s approval highlights the inadequacy of current leadership approaches and points to a potential need for a significant shift in strategy to reconnect with the electorate.