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AfD Surges to Polling Lead Ahead of CDU/CSU

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) leads major polls in Germany, with 27% in a GMS survey, ahead of the ruling CDU/CSU at 24%.
This marks a shift from a year ago when the CDU had 33% and the AfD 18%.
The AfD is performing well in upcoming state elections, polling around 40% in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Elections in several regions are set for September 2026.

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Story summary

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) leads major polls in Germany, with 27% in a GMS survey, ahead of the ruling CDU/CSU at 24%.
This marks a shift from a year ago when the CDU had 33% and the AfD 18%.
The AfD is performing well in upcoming state elections, polling around 40% in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Elections in several regions are set for September 2026.