AfD Surges to 26% Approval, Becomes Most Popular Party in Germany

Recent polls show the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has reached a historic level of popularity, becoming the most popular party in Germany for the first time, with 26% approval, surpassing the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) at 25%. This surge has occurred despite the party being classified by some as extreme right and amid calls from left-leaning parties to ban the AfD from parliament. While the CDU and SPD negotiated a coalition agreement after receiving a combined 40% of support, they would no longer hold a majority if elections were held today. The political climate is tense, with some CDU/CSU leaders urging a less confrontational stance toward the AfD, while SPD members warn any rapprochement could strain or even split the coalition. Additionally, public opinion is shifting, with nearly half of Germans now supporting treating the AfD like any other party, despite ongoing efforts to ostracize it. Analysts caution that polling reflects current sentiment and not guaranteed election outcomes, citing factors such as short-term voter decisions and declining party loyalty.