In a recent survey conducted by RTL/ntv-Trendbarometer, the FDP has seen a slight improvement in popularity at the expense of the CDU and CSU. The Union parties have lost one percentage point compared to the previous week, now standing at 30 percent, while the FDP has gained one percentage point, reaching 5 percent for the first time in four weeks. The other party rankings remain stable, with the AfD at 17 percent, the SPD at 15 percent, and the Greens at 13 percent. The BSW and other smaller parties collectively make up 14 percent of the vote.
Comparing these results with surveys from other institutes over the past two weeks, the Union parties have ranged between 30 and 30.5 percent, the AfD between 18 and 18.5 percent, the SPD at 15 percent, the Greens between 13 and 15 percent, the FDP between 4 and 5 percent, the BSW between 5 and 6.5 percent, and the remaining parties between 5.5 and 7 percent. In terms of chancellor preference, Olaf Scholz and Friedrich Merz have both lost one percentage point, while Robert Habeck and Annalena Baerbock’s ratings remain unchanged. When given the choice for chancellor between Scholz, Merz, and Habeck, 18 percent would choose Scholz, 21 percent Merz, and 17 percent Habeck. In a scenario with Scholz, Merz, and Baerbock, 21 percent would choose Scholz, 24 percent Merz, and 16 percent Baerbock.
According to the survey, only about a third of Germans believe that Chancellor Olaf Scholz (30 percent) and Economic Minister Robert Habeck (33 percent) are capable of fulfilling their duties. Finance Minister Christian Lindner has a slightly higher approval rating at 44 percent, but also faces doubts from 47 percent of respondents. A majority, 64 percent for Scholz and 59 percent for Habeck, believe they are not competent for their positions. The survey was conducted by Forsa on behalf of RTL Deutschland from April 2nd to 8th, with a total of 2506 participants contributing to the party and chancellor preference data, and the data on political suitability was collected on April 4th and 5th from 1001 participants, with a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points.
Overall, the FDP’s slight increase in popularity at the expense of the CDU and CSU in the most recent survey indicates a potential shift in Germany’s political landscape. While the Union parties continue to lose ground, the FDP’s rise above the five percent threshold marks a significant development after weeks of stagnation. The stability of other party rankings suggests a relatively static political environment, with the AfD maintaining its position as the second strongest party in Germany. The diverging opinions on the competency of key political figures such as Chancellor Scholz and Minister Habeck reflect the divided sentiments among German voters regarding the current government’s performance.
As the political landscape in Germany continues to evolve, these survey results provide valuable insights into voter preferences and perceptions of key political figures. With the upcoming elections on the horizon, the fluctuating popularity of parties and leaders will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the country. The contrasting views on Chancellor Scholz, Finance Minister Lindner, and others highlight the polarized opinions within the electorate, underscoring the importance of addressing key issues and concerns to win over undecided voters and secure a mandate for governance. As the campaign season progresses, the shifting dynamics in party popularity and public opinion will be closely monitored by analysts and political observers to anticipate potential outcomes and trends in the German political landscape.
