NRW Voter Survey Reveals CDU and SPD Decline Amid AfD's Rising Strength

A recent NRW-Trend survey reveals significant shifts in the political landscape of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), with the traditional parties CDU and SPD suffering notable losses, while the AfD gains unprecedented support.

According to the survey conducted by Infratest dimap for WDR, the CDU now holds 32% support, marking a three percentage point decrease since February and a sharp decline from its 40% peak in October 2024. The SPD also dropped to 17%, nearing its record low of 16% set in June 2025. Meanwhile, the Greens experienced a modest increase to 15%, as part of the coalition government. Notably, the AfD surged to 17%, tying with the SPD as the second strongest party in the state.

Public satisfaction with the NRW state government and Ministerpräsident Hendrik Wüst continues to wane, dropping to 42%. Citizens' top concern has shifted from migration to infrastructural challenges, with 31% prioritizing issues such as public transport and traffic, surpassing migration concerns at 20%. Economic confidence remains low, as only 22% of respondents rate the economy positively and 16% express worries over job security. Additionally, rising costs are influencing lifestyles, with 25% reconsidering summer vacation plans.

Despite progress by Germany’s black-red coalition government in managing migration, the AfD's popularity remains undiminished, indicating factors beyond migration are sustaining voter support for the party. The complexity of the AfD’s appeal goes beyond current political and social challenges, suggesting deep-rooted voter discontent and shifting priorities.

These developments illustrate a fracturing political terrain in NRW, where voter allegiance to traditional parties diminishes and alternative forces like the AfD gain ground amid persistent economic and infrastructural concerns.