German Chancellor Faces Domestic Challenges Amid US Visit

Chancellor Merz's approval ratings, economic woes, and far-right rise pose bigger threats than Trump

Mar. 2, 2026 at 6:39pm

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is visiting Washington this week to discuss issues like the trans-Atlantic relationship, tariffs, the war in Ukraine, and Iran. However, he has bigger problems at home, including low approval ratings, an ailing economy, and the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which is poised to make gains in upcoming state elections. The Christian Democrats, Merz's party, are struggling to define their identity and counter the AfD's appeal, as the center and far-right converge on issues like migration.

Why it matters

Merz's ability to navigate Germany's domestic political challenges will be crucial for the future of German democracy, as the AfD threatens to gain more power and influence. The Christian Democrats must find a way to reclaim the 'bürgerlich' (middle-class, civic-minded) identity from the far-right, while also addressing the country's economic woes.

The details

Merz has faced criticism for his willingness to work with the AfD, such as pushing through anti-migrant measures that relied on their votes. The party's foreign minister also sparked controversy by questioning whether Syrians in Germany would want to return home. These episodes reflect a wider shift in Germany, where migration policies once considered unthinkable now have broad political support. The AfD is also trying to appear more moderate, blurring the lines between the center and far-right.

  • Merz is visiting Washington on March 2-3, 2026.
  • Five of Germany's 16 states will hold elections in 2026, a crucial test for the AfD.

The players

Friedrich Merz

The Chancellor of Germany, leading the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States.

Alternative for Germany (AfD)

A far-right political party in Germany that is poised to make gains in upcoming state elections.

Johann Wadephul

The Foreign Minister of Germany, who sparked controversy with comments about Syrians in Germany.

Walter Lübcke

A local German politician who was killed by a right-wing extremist in 2019, serving as a warning about the dangers of the far-right.

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What they’re saying

“To see that there is nothing civil or moderate about them, you need only to listen to their speeches or follow their social media channels.”

— Anna Sauerbrey, Editor and writer at Die Zeit

“The Christian Democrats mustn't fall for it. In an encouraging sign, Mr. Merz unequivocally ruled out any partnership with the AfD at his party's congress last month.”

— Anna Sauerbrey, Editor and writer at Die Zeit

What’s next

The judge in the case against Walter Lübcke's killer will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the defendant out on bail.

The takeaway

Merz and the Christian Democrats must find a way to reclaim the 'bürgerlich' (middle-class, civic-minded) identity from the far-right AfD, while also addressing Germany's economic challenges, in order to counter the party's growing influence and protect the future of German democracy.