Merz’s comeback flounders as voters doubt reforms and AfD gains

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s nationwide tour to shore up his flagging popularity is backfiring, with voters perceiving him as out of touch and doubting his ability to deliver economic reforms. Polls show 86% of Germans unhappy with the coalition, Merz’s own numbers are weak (about 24% think he can turn the economy around, 14% say he communicates effectively), and the far-right AfD is gaining ground in eastern Germany ahead of elections, complicating the government’s path forward. His emphasis on gradual reforms and business-focused outreach has not yet translated into broad public support.