The alternative for Germany (AfD), a populist right-wing party has gained a significant lead in the latest polling results, surpassing the mainstream conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) for the first time. The survey conducted by Forsa Institute for Social Research and Statistical Analysis shows AfD, led by Alice Weidel, has garnered 26% support, compared to the CDU’s 24%. This represents the first time that the CDU has faced such a large loss in popularity since the 2021 election. This is also a sign of increasing public dissatisfaction with Chancellor Merz’s leadership and his performance during his first 100 days in office, with 67% expressing dissatisfaction with his work.
Despite being classified as an “extremist” party by Germany’s intelligence agency earlier this year, AfD has managed to maintain its position in the political landscape of Germany. The designation was criticized by U.S. officials, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemning it as an attack on democratic principles and a move to suppress opposition. In his statement, Rubio criticized the intelligence agency’s decision and called it “tyranny in disguise,” suggesting that the party’s support is a reflection of the public’s discontent with the current establishment.
The situation in Germany is part of a broader trend of the rise of far-right parties across various European nations. In the UK, Reform UK led by Nigel Farage is seeing growing public support, and in France, the National Rally Party is also experiencing a surge in popularity. This shift indicates a growing disillusionment with traditional political parties and a rising appeal of far-right movements, often driven by issues such as immigration and national identity.