Recent polling indicates a 2-point drop in support for Germany’s conservative bloc to 28%, following a controversial migration crackdown endorsed by Friedrich Merz through AfD votes. Meanwhile, support for the Social Democrats remains at 16% and the AfD at 20%. The shift in campaigning focus is driven by increased public concern over migration issues after recent violent incidents.
Support for Germany’s conservative alliance has decreased by 2 percentage points, now standing at 28%, as reported by a survey conducted by Forsa for RTL/ntv. The decline came after Friedrich Merz, the lead candidate, leveraged support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to pass migration crackdown measures in parliament. This shift occurs less than three weeks before the federal elections, showcasing changing voter sentiments regarding migration issues.
In the same survey, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) maintained a steady support level of 16%, while the far-right AfD remained unchanged at 20%. Merz’s recent parliamentary approval for restrictive migration proposals, aided by AfD votes, represents a significant shift in political alliances, marking a breaking of historical taboos against collaborating with far-right factions.
The campaign focus has intensified on migration following the arrest of an Afghan asylum seeker, suspected in recent violent incidents, including deadly stabbings. Such high-profile cases have amplified public concern about immigration, prompting a critical assessment of party policies in the lead-up to the elections. Merz’s attempt to introduce additional migration legislation was unsuccessful, as some legislators from his own party did not support him.
The Forsa poll, conducted between January 28 and February 3, largely reflects opinions post the initial parliamentary vote regarding migration laws. It indicates a fluctuating political landscape, with implications for the upcoming elections and the future governmental approach to immigration and security issues.
Germany is approaching critical federal elections in a climate of heightened public concern over migration, particularly in light of recent incidents linked to individuals with immigrant backgrounds. Conservative parties, specifically the CDU/CSU alliance, traditionally have held strong views against immigration. However, their recent collaboration with the AfD indicates a strategic push to appeal to voters increasingly worried about migration policies. The changing dynamics highlight the complexities and shifting alliances within German politics, especially regarding how to address public security and immigration reform.
The recent decline in support for Germany’s conservative bloc underscores the challenges faced by Friedrich Merz in navigating the sensitive issue of migration. As public concerns grow, particularly following multiple violent incidents, the effectiveness of the alliance’s strategy in collaboration with the AfD will likely underpin voter decisions in the upcoming elections. Political stability and future policy direction remain uncertain as parties recalibrate their approaches to meet public expectations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
