Overview

• Friedrich Merz's decision to advance a migration bill with the support of AfD votes has divided public opinion, with 50% of Germans viewing it as harmful to democracy.
• Despite criticism, Merz and the CDU/CSU have seen a slight increase in polling, now at 31%, as the party's base largely supports his approach.
• Former Chancellor Angela Merkel publicly criticized Merz's actions, calling them a significant breach of democratic norms, while urging compromise among democratic parties.
• The upcoming Bundestagswahl on February 23 remains uncertain, with coalition-building likely to be a key challenge for Merz if the CDU secures the most votes.
• Protests against Merz's strategy have drawn thousands, but polling suggests these demonstrations do not represent the broader electorate's sentiment.