Friedrich Merz, the recently appointed Federal Chancellor from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is experiencing a decline in popularity, according to recent polls. A notable drop from 13th to 15th place in a politician ranking by the opinion research institute Insa highlights this trend. In contrast, Lars Klingbeil, the Vice Chancellor from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), has seen a surprising rise to second place.
Despite the CDU/CSU leading in current polls, they lack a majority coalition with the SPD. The CDU/CSU has ruled out forming a coalition with either the Alternative for Germany (AfD) or the Left Party. A Forsa survey signals increasing economic optimism following Merz's government initiation, although 50% of respondents anticipate poor governance performance.
Merz recently delivered his first government declaration in the Bundestag, outlining the coalition's program with the SPD. The focus areas include reviving the economy, reducing energy prices, and cutting bureaucracy. This declaration marks the beginning of discussions with all ministers in the CDU-SPD government.
At the CDU Economic Day, Merz received support from leading Dax managers, especially for a proposal that contradicted previous party policies. This support underscores the CDU's strategic economic focus.
Looking ahead to the 2026 state elections, the CDU in Saxony-Anhalt is deciding whether to back the incumbent Minister-President Reiner Haseloff or choose a new candidate. As preparations unfold, other parties like the AfD and the Left are also selecting their candidates. The election is set for September 6, 2026, promising a dynamic political landscape.
