Belgian political scientist: Merz can't offer alternative to AfD, people's parties in decline

In an interview, political scientist Anton Jäger argues that CDU leader Friedrich Merz is unable to offer a credible alternative to the far-right AfD, reflecting the broader decline of traditional people's parties in Europe. The analysis draws on lessons from Saxony-Anhalt and suggests that hyperpolitics, as exemplified by cultural figures like Sally Rooney, is reshaping political engagement. This is an opinion piece, not a factual development, but it signals ongoing political fragmentation in Germany ahead of elections.