Germany news: Far-right AfD polls 37% ahead of state vote
Deutsche Welle
February 19, 2026
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Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is leading polls in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with 37%, signaling a strong showing ahead of upcoming state elections later this year. Meanwhile, firefighters were called to Berlin's Reichstag building after a hazardous substance triggered gas detectors early Thursday morning. Emergency personnel assessed the situation, identifying a potential cleaning agent as the likely cause of the alert.
The AfD’s surge in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania highlights growing support for far-right parties in regional politics, despite their declining popularity nationally. This could reshape the state’s political landscape and challenge traditional parties like the CDU and SPD. The poll results reflect broader shifts in voter sentiment, particularly in areas with high AfD presence.
In a separate development, Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the importance of a renewed work ethic to sustain Germany's prosperity during a speech in Trier. He criticized what he described as a growing "lifestyle" approach to work, warning that complacency could erode economic success. Merz’s comments come ahead of a CDU party congress where debates over work culture and part-time work rights are expected to dominate.
The Reichstag incident, while initially alarming, appears to have been caused by a cleaning agent rather than a security threat. Firefighters responded swiftly, setting up decontamination zones and restricting nearby traffic routes. The Reichstag, famous for the 1933 fire exploited by the Nazis to consolidate power, has long symbolized Germany’s democratic institutions. This latest incident underscores the challenges of maintaining security in historic landmarks.
These events—rising far-right influence, calls for a stronger work ethic, and a Reichstag security alert—highlight key issues shaping Germany’s political and social landscape. The AfD’s polling success reflects deeper divisions over immigration and identity, while Merz’s focus on work culture signals ongoing debates about economic sustainability. Meanwhile, the Reichstag incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in balancing security and daily operations in iconic public spaces
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/19/2026