German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s approval rating drops to 13%

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s approval rating fell to 13%, the lowest level recorded since the start of the ARD "Deutschlandtrend" poll. The survey shows 84% of respondents are dissatisfied with his performance. The opposition Alternative for Germany (AfD) retained the lead with 27% support, while the CDU/CSU slipped to 22%, its lowest level in almost five years.

Merz is pushing an extensive reform agenda covering pensions, taxes, health care and labour rules. The governing coalition of conservatives and social democrats approved a package of 34 measures, including tax relief for low‑ and middle‑income earners, pension reforms, stricter sick‑leave rules and a reduction in bureaucracy. Proposals to link the retirement age to life expectancy and to require a medical certificate for sick leave from day one have sparked particular opposition.

AfD co‑chair Tino Krupala accused Merz of lacking empathy for workers. Business leaders warned of a “lost decade” if reforms are not deeper and faster, citing rising prices, industrial slowdown and job‑security fears. Merz defended the reforms, stating, “I constantly hear accusations that the political centre fails, but only blocks its own progress. Let me answer unequivocally: the centre delivers results.”