AfD Surges to Second Place in German Polls

As Germany approaches its federal elections on February 23, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has gained significant ground, rising to become the second-largest political force with around 20% support, a stark increase from 10% in the previous election. This surge has prompted the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to collaborate with AfD for legislative motions, marking a pivotal moment in the normalization of far-right politics in Germany. Experts warn that this shift could undermine democratic norms, as reliance on extremist parties suggests a breach in the historical barriers against them. The rise of the far-right has been attributed to factors like economic distress and immigration issues, yet its media manipulation tactics are seen as a critical driver of its success. The political landscape is being transformed as traditional parties grapple with the implications of these alliances and changing voter sentiments. Despite these developments, some analysts maintain that Germany's robust institutions may still prevent a complete erosion of democracy.