Chancellor Friedrich Merz is encountering significant criticism regarding his communication style and declining public trust. According to a poll conducted by Forsa and commissioned by RTL/ntv, only 22% of German citizens consider his statements to be appropriate. A large majority, 73%, believe he needs to choose his words more carefully.
This data highlights a troubling decline in approval. While 30% of citizens reported being satisfied with his remarks in October 2025, the situation regarding public confidence is even starker. Only 11% believe Merz will significantly regain the trust of the citizens over the course of the year, leaving an overwhelming 82% unconvinced.
Overall support for the Chancellor is therefore showing a continuous decrease. This criticism is so widespread that even within the Union party, a majority is now demanding a more cautious communication approach. The survey sampled 1,002 individuals between April 30 and May 4, 2026.