Liberal FDP faces collapse: Polls show dismal support ahead of election

Germany heads to the polls on February 23 to elect a new Bundestag, and the numbers don’t look good for Christian Lindner’s FDP. A Forsa poll highlights the party’s precarious position, revealing widespread skepticism about its leadership. Only 17% of respondents believe the FDP is fit to govern, while even among its 2021 voters, 67% share doubts. Among the party’s remaining supporters, nearly half (46%) also question its capability.

The FDP isn’t alone in its struggles. Die Linke and the BSW, polling at 4% each, also face exclusion from parliament. Meanwhile, the Union holds steady as the leading party at 32%, with the AfD trailing at 18%. The SPD shows slight growth, climbing to 16%, while the Greens maintain a solid 12%.

In the race for chancellor, Friedrich Merz of the CDU drops two points to 28%, while Green candidate Robert Habeck climbs to 24%. Chancellor Olaf Scholz sees the most significant boost, rising three points to match his November standing of 16%. Still, 32% of voters reject all three candidates outright.

As election day nears, the FDP’s struggle underscores a broader political shakeup in Germany, with traditional parties losing ground and voter skepticism running high.