German media have reported on the shift in the political mood in the US over the past two weeks since President Joe Biden bowed out of the race. The new candidate, Kamala Harris, is seen to be scoring points against the Republican challenger, former President Donald Trump. According to Germany’s “Deutschlandtrend” survey, 77% of respondents believe Vice President Kamala Harris is more suitable for the presidency, while only 10% favor Donald Trump.
Opposition to Israel’s military actions
Meanwhile, there is growing concern in Germany over the escalating violence in the Middle East. Many fear a direct confrontation between Iran and Israel following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. The majority of respondents feel Israel has gone too far in its reaction to terrorist attacks by Hamas, with 57% stating this in the survey.
Clear majority do not want far-right AfD in government
The upcoming elections in Germany’s eastern states are a cause for concern due to the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Despite some support for the AfD in the eastern states, a majority nationwide does not favor the party being part of a regional government.
Union as strong as all three government partners
Germany’s current center-left government is facing challenges with low voter support and dissatisfaction. The conservative CDU/CSU bloc is gaining traction in the polls, posing a tough challenge for the current government coalition in the upcoming general election.