Germany’s Merz Now Most Unpopular Top-Tier Politician
The survey, published Tuesday by BILD newspaper, placed Merz at 20th position among the country's top 20 politicians — a drop from his previous ranking of 18th — with a score of just 28.9 points.
What makes the figures particularly striking is that Merz's collapse in public standing is not confined to the broader electorate. Even within his own political base, support has eroded sharply. Among voters aligned with his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its coalition partner, the Christian Social Union (CSU), only 10% hold a favorable view of the chancellor, while a damning 58% view him negatively. He trails fellow conservative figures including CSU leader Markus Soder, North Rhine-Westphalia State Premier Hendrik Wust, and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt.
Merz is navigating a confluence of crises. On the economic front, Germany last week slashed its growth forecast, with the conservative-led coalition now projecting GDP expansion of just 0.5% this year — half the prior estimate of 1.0%. The outlook for 2027 was similarly downgraded, to 0.9% from 1.3%. Rising fuel costs driven by the ongoing Iran war have added further pressure.
On the diplomatic front, Merz drew attention Monday by openly questioning Washington's approach, stating he does not see what exit strategy the US has in the conflict.
The numbers align with a separate poll conducted earlier this month by Bild am Sonntag, which found that 70% of eligible voters are dissatisfied with Merz's performance, against just 21% who approve. The center-right coalition between the Christian Democrats and Social Democrats fared no better — 73% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the governing alliance, with only 20% offering support.
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