Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has seen a significant surge in polling, reaching 23%, following a horrific knife attack on children in Aschaffenburg. The heinous attack, which occurred earlier this month, has sparked widespread outrage and led to a decline in support for the ruling left-wing SPD and Green parties.
BUNDESTAGSWAHL | Sonntagsfrage YouGov
Union: 29% (+1)
AfD: 23% (+4)
SPD: 15% (-4)
GRÜNE: 13% (-2)
BSW: 6%
LINKE: 5% (+1)
FDP: 3% (-1)
Sonstige: 5% (-1)Änderungen zur letzten Umfrage vom 22. Januar 2025
Verlauf: https://t.co/f9MV7iZ8iJ#btw25 pic.twitter.com/lMZkRpzg41
— Deutschland Wählt (@Wahlen_DE) January 29, 2025
The tragic event, which saw a number of children severely injured in a public assault, has heightened tensions around issues of public safety and immigration, with many accusing the government of failing to protect citizens. In the aftermath, the AfD has capitalized on public dissatisfaction, gaining ground as voters express frustration with the SPD and Greens’ handling of security concerns.
Recent polls indicate that the SPD and Greens have seen their support erode, with both parties falling behind in the wake of the attack. The surge in support for the AfD comes as the party continues to push for stricter immigration policies and a tougher stance on crime.
Political analysts suggest that this shift in voter sentiment may reflect growing dissatisfaction with the current government’s approach to national security, as well as concerns over the integration of migrants into German society. The impact of the attack on the political landscape is expected to be a key issue in the upcoming elections.