Chancellor Merz's approval rating falls to record low of 13% amid growing dissatisfaction

INSA survey results

The level of satisfaction among German citizens with the performance of Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reached a historic low. According to data from a poll conducted by the INSA institute and published by Bild, only 13% of respondents rate the head of government's work positively. Meanwhile, 82% of those surveyed expressed dissatisfaction with his performance.

Trends since the start of the year

Chancellor support figures have changed significantly compared to the beginning of the year. In January 2026, 24% of respondents stated they were satisfied with Merz's work, while the share of dissatisfied respondents stood at 67%. These figures have now shifted towards criticism, indicating that the country's leadership rating has fallen to a record low.

A similar situation is observed regarding the governing coalition, which includes the CDU/CSU and the SPD. 82% of poll participants have a negative attitude towards the work of this alliance, with only 13% of respondents giving a positive assessment.

Assessment of citizens' personal well-being

Most Germans report a deterioration in their situation since the current coalition came to power. 60% of respondents stated that their personal lives have become worse. Only 6% noted an improvement, while 29% did not notice any changes.

Party ratings in Germany

The opposition "Alternative for Germany" (AfD) retains the lead in party ratings, supported by 29% of respondents. The figures for other political forces are distributed as follows:

• CDU/CSU — 19% (down by one percentage point);
• Greens — 15%;
• SPD — 14%;
• The Left Party — 10%;
• FDP — 5%.