Recent polls ahead of Germany's Bundestag elections reveal significant shifts in voter preferences.

The CDU, led by Friedrich Merz, has gained a point, reaching 33%, while the far-right AfD, with Alice Weidel as its candidate, stands at 19%.

Meanwhile, the SPD has dropped to 14%, reflecting a loss of trust after Chancellor Olaf Scholz's failed confidence vote.

The Greens remain steady at 14%, but smaller parties like the FDP and Left Party risk missing the 5% threshold.

Public opinion on leadership remains critical, with only 28% viewing Merz as a suitable chancellor, and even lower ratings for Scholz and Weidel.

The political landscape is further complicated by tensions within and between parties, as well as debates over fair election practices and TV debate formats.

As the election approaches, the fragmented political scene underscores the challenges of forming a stable government.