The popularity of the right-wing party Alternative for Germany (AfD) in Germany has reached a historic high of 23.5%, according to a new poll conducted by the INSA institute and published by Bild.
Experts note that the party’s support could continue to grow, especially if difficulties arise in forming a new ruling coalition.
This is the highest rating for AfD in INSA polls. Our analysis shows that the party’s maximum potential stands at 30.5%, said INSA head Hermann Binkert.
According to the poll, the gap between AfD and the ruling CDU/CSU alliance has narrowed to 3.5%, whereas in the fall of last year, it was four times larger. Meanwhile, the Greens improved their position by 1%, reaching 12%. The Free Democratic Party (FDP) also made slight gains, rising to 3.5% (+0.5%), while the Social Democratic Party (SPD) lost one percentage point, dropping to 14.5%. The Left Party maintained its result at 10.5%.
Political analyst Werner Patzelt believes that Germany’s political landscape is shifting to the right; however, coalition negotiations could still result in a center-left government (CDU/CSU – SPD).
Voters are increasingly realizing that there is no point in voting for the CDU if it does not lead to the formation of a right-wing government,” he noted. He also argued that “isolating AfD only strengthens its position, fueling protest votes.
Hermann Binkert emphasized that the CDU is perceived by voters as “part of the establishment”, whereas AfD remains the only true right-wing opposition, making it more attractive to the electorate.
