A recent YouGov poll revealed that 80% of Germans are concerned about the implications of Merz's relationship with the AfD for governance.
Despite these concerns, public opinion largely supports Merz's proposals, indicating a significant alignment with his political strategies, even as risks to democratic processes loom.
As Germany approaches its elections, the political atmosphere is charged with rising tensions surrounding immigration policies, reflecting a shift in voter dynamics.
Critics accuse Merz of breaking long-standing taboos regarding cooperation with the AfD, despite his attempts to frame his actions as a victory for democracy.
Political scientist Wolfgang Schroeder warned that this vote could demoralize CDU members who have resisted working with the AfD, potentially normalizing such collaborations in the future.
Voter sentiment reflects fears that Merz's approach risks eroding democratic norms, with many drawing parallels to historical mistakes reminiscent of the Weimar Republic.
Merz's openness to AfD support for stricter immigration policies marks a deviation from post-Nazi political norms, further complicating the political landscape.
Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU, is facing significant scrutiny after his party voted with the far-right AfD in the Bundestag for a migration proposal, raising alarms about the integrity of the CDU's stance against extremism.
This controversial collaboration has sparked widespread criticism, with former Chancellor Angela Merkel and various organizations condemning Merz's strategy, leading to public protests against his engagement with the far right.
In response to the AfD's rising support, Merz suggested a televised debate with AfD leader Alice Weidel as a strategy to counter their influence, highlighting his anxiety over the situation.
While Merz has firmly rejected the idea of forming a coalition with the AfD, skepticism remains among the electorate, with a notable percentage doubting his commitment to this stance.
Polling data shows that the AfD's popularity has surged since Christmas, likely fueled by heightened public concern following a violent incident in Magdeburg.
