With only weeks to go until the federal election set for February 23, 2025, emotions are running high among the German electorate. A recent survey by MDRfragt captured the sentiments of almost 26,000 individuals across Sachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt, and Thüringen, highlighting mixed feelings of hope and concern.
According to the survey results, over 25% of respondents expressed concern about the election, predominantly among women, whereas men showed greater optimism. The survey highlighted significant disparities based on age and gender, where older voters tended to express emotions such as hope and concern much more intensely than younger voters did. This difference suggests complex underlying sentiments associated with political trust and responsibility, especially as nearly 59% of eligible voters are over the age of 50.
Comments from participants reveal specific worries attributed to feelings of disconnection from traditional politics. Sieglinde, 72, voiced her frustration: "I see no one who could help Germany move forward. Our politicians think primarily of themselves and their own interests." Similarly, concerns about the integrity of political systems, and the perceived growing influence of large corporations over governmental decisions, resonate throughout the commentary. For many, like Ulrich, 73, it is the fear of populism and superficial dialogue among politicians leading the country toward a perilous path.
Conversely, many of the participants expressed hope for change. Gerd, 74, indicated optimism, asserting, "I hope it will soon move forward again, and the competing parties will come together for Germany's sake." This sentiment is echoed by others who advocate for new faces and significant reforms within Germany's leadership.
The economic challenges facing voters are also pivotal to discussions leading up to the election. Several respondents called for the revival of the wealth tax, seeing it as not just fiscal necessity but also as social responsibility. The survey indicated significant support for tax reform proposals, reflecting desires for more equitable distribution of wealth.
Interestingly, the survey unearthed strong opinions around the idea of tax cuts targeting citizens directly versus businesses. Almost two-thirds of respondents favored tax reductions for individuals over corporate tax relief, signaling growing frustrations with economic policies perceived as advantageous to corporations rather than citizens.
The impending election also poses various questions about the electorate's priorities and if party strategies accurately reflect public sentiment. Looking back at the Bundestagswahl 2021, it is noteworthy how priorities have shifted; concerns over climate change once took precedence, but more recent surveys suggest migration, economic stability, and security are now at the forefront.
Interestingly, previous trends indicate generational divides, evidenced by differing voting patterns among young and older demographics. Young voters have increasingly shown support for parties such as the Greens and even the far-right AfD, troubling many older citizens who often lean toward traditionally stable parties like the CDU and SPD.
Across various discussions leading up to the election, the feelings of being 'heard' or 'ignored' by mainstream parties resonate particularly strong among younger voters, which could shape their voting behavior. Psychologist and researcher Rüdiger Maas indicates, "Young voters often feel alienated from traditional parties, leading to disillusionment. Social media's influence makes it imperative for new voices to emerge within the political spectrum."
This disillusionment could have drastic consequences for the election's outcome, particularly as young voters wield substantial power but often do not see their interests represented. Political insiders worry this situation could lead to surprising voting trends as they try to predict how the election outcome will find the balance between established political influences and the fresh perspectives needed for change.
Christine, 74, summarized the general hope for constructive political dialogue: "Democracy means to me everyone elected sitting at the table, respecting each other's opinions and implementing the best for the citizens." This encapsulates the desire for greater engagement and responsiveness from political entities as the election looms.
Political analysts stress the importance of this election, not simply as another vote but as a pivotal moment for Germany’s democracy, fundamentally shaped by its citizens' concerns, hopes, and the quest for stability and progress. Nobody can predict with certainty what February 23 holds, but one thing is clear: the election is not just about parties and platforms; it's about reflecting the will of the people.