A recent survey by Forsa shows that most Germans would not welcome former Chancellor Angela Merkel as a candidate for the presidency. Conducted on 18 and 19 February for RTL and ntv, the poll of 1 003 respondents found that 54 % would consider it a poor choice if Merkel were to succeed Frank‑Walter Steinmeier, while only 35 % supported the idea.
When asked whether Merkel could boost the economy if she were Chancellor again, 32 % believed she could, but 59 % were doubtful. A similar split appeared regarding foreign policy: just 23 % thought she would improve relations with the U.S. president, whereas 69 % were skeptical; 35 % felt she could strengthen ties with Russian president Vladimir Putin, yet 57 % remained skeptical.
On whether Merkel’s presence would still make the AfD as popular today, 60 % answered yes, and 30 % disagreed. In terms of infrastructure investment, 75 % accused her of under‑investing.
Although speculation had circulated about a potential presidential bid, Merkel has already denied interest in the role.
