German CDU Faces Backlash Over Far-Right Support in Immigration Votes

Friedrich Merz's controversial strategy draws protests, poll declines, and criticism ahead of February 23 election.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz relied on far-right AfD votes to pass a non-binding immigration resolution, breaking a longstanding political taboo in Germany.
The move has led to mass protests across the country and a backlash from other mainstream parties, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD and former Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Recent polls show the CDU/CSU bloc losing support, now at 28-30%, while the far-right AfD remains steady at 20%, and the SPD has gained ground at 16-18%.
Merz has publicly distanced himself from the AfD, insisting his party will not collaborate with them, despite criticism over the perceived weakening of the 'firewall' against the far-right.
The controversy has complicated prospects for coalition-building after the election, with no party expected to secure a majority, and increased focus on immigration dominating the campaign.