Recent Survey Shows SPD and AfD Gaining Support as Union Faces Setback

A recent Forsa survey has revealed a shift in the political landscape in Germany, indicating a slight increase in support for both the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Alternative for Germany (AfD), while the Union parties (CDU/CSU) have experienced a decrease in voter sympathy following a controversial migration policy proposal.

The survey, conducted between January 21 and January 27, found that the Union's popularity dropped by one percentage point, bringing their total to 30%. In contrast, the AfD saw a one-point increase to reach 20%, while the SPD also gained one point, climbing to 16%. The Green Party's support remained steady at 14%, and both the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and the Left Party continued to hold at 4% each.

The findings suggest that the Union's recent discussions about tightening migration policies, particularly in light of a fatal stabbing incident in Aschaffenburg, have not resonated positively with the electorate. Instead, the SPD and AfD appear to be benefiting from the backlash against the Union's stance.

In terms of leadership preferences, the survey indicates a notable increase for AfD leader Alice Weidel, who rose from 14% to 18%, surpassing Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the SPD, who stands at 16%. Friedrich Merz, the Union's candidate for chancellor, remains the frontrunner with 25%, having gained two percentage points. Green politician Robert Habeck saw a slight decline, dropping from 23% to 22%.

These results reflect a significant shift in voter sentiment, particularly as the Union's support has waned in the wake of its hardline approach to asylum policy, which has included discussions about collaborating with the AfD to push through stricter measures in Parliament.

The Forsa data indicates that the Union's support was at 31% earlier in the week, but fell to 28% by the end of the week, coinciding with the rising approval ratings for both the SPD and the AfD during the same period.

It is important to note that while surveys provide a snapshot of public opinion, they are inherently subject to fluctuations and uncertainties. Factors such as declining party loyalty and increasingly spontaneous voting decisions complicate the accuracy of these polls. Overall, these findings highlight the dynamic nature of German politics as parties vie for voter support amidst changing public sentiments.