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Merz popularity hits record low in Germany as AfD surges in polls ahead
International
Published on 28 April 2026
AfD is leading nationally as east Germany elections loom
Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s approval has fallen sharply as his government approaches its first anniversary. Recent surveys show Germany’s far-right AfD leading in national voting intentions, while public satisfaction with Merz’s leadership remains weak. Economic pressures and coalition infighting are compounding the problem, and upcoming eastern state elections could further strengthen AfD momentum.
- Merz’s popularity is at a new low before his first anniversary
- AfD leads in national polls, signaling rising far-right support
- Low public satisfaction follows economic strain and coalition disputes
- Eastern Germany elections could amplify AfD’s strong position
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on 
The Economic Times