A recent survey conducted by Forsa indicates a significant shift in voter preferences within Germany. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has reached its highest recorded level of support, garnering 27 percent of potential voters. This represents a two-point increase from the previous week and places the party just ahead of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU).
The CDU/CSU bloc remains at 25 percent. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) experienced a decline to 13 percent, a decrease of one point. The Green Party also saw a one-point drop, settling at 11 percent, mirroring the SPD’s result. The Left Party holds steady at 11 percent, while the newly formed BSW (Basis Social Movement) is at 4 percent. The Free Democratic Party (FDP) registers at 3 percent and other parties collectively account for 6 percent. Currently, 21 percent of respondents identify as non-voters or are undecided.
Regarding perceptions of political competence, 19 percent of those surveyed believe the CDU/CSU are best equipped to address Germany’s challenges – consistent with last week’s findings. AfD’s perceived competence has risen to 13 percent, an increase of two points. The SPD’s standing in this regard has fallen to 6 percent, down two points. The Green Party and The Left each receive a perceived competence rating of 5 percent. A considerable 49 percent of respondents do not attribute political competence to any party.
Public satisfaction with Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has reached its lowest recorded level since he assumed office. Only 28 percent of Germans express satisfaction with his performance, while 70 percent are dissatisfied. Satisfaction remains concentrated among supporters of the CDU/CSU, with 64 percent expressing approval and 35 percent expressing disapproval.
Economic sentiment among German citizens continues to deteriorate. Only 15 percent anticipate an improvement in the economic situation, compared to 64 percent who predict a worsening. Twenty percent foresee no change.
The survey was conducted between September 16th and September 22nd, 2025, encompassing a sample of 2,504 respondents.
