Scholz or Merz? Viewers don't see a clear winner in the TV duel!

Scholz or Merz? Viewers don't see a clear winner in the TV duel!

The first TV duel between Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) and his challenger Friedrich Merz (CDU) left viewers with mixed feelings. According to a quick survey by the research group Elections for ZDF and the Daily Mirror 37 percent of those surveyed preferred the Chancellor, while 34 percent rated Merz as stronger. Around 29 percent saw both candidates at a similar level.

However, the survey is not representative of all eligible voters in Germany, but only of those watching the duel. Scholz was also perceived as more credible and likeable than Merz, which was confirmed by 42 and 46 percent of those surveyed. Merz only achieved 31 and 27 percent in these categories. Scholz particularly shined among women: 43 percent were convinced of him, while Merz only reached 29 percent of women. Among the men, 40 percent saw Merz ahead, 30 percent favored Scholz, like him Vienna News reported.

Different perceptions in age groups

The opinion varied greatly depending on the age group: Among 18 to 34 year olds, Scholz did significantly better with 47 percent than Merz, who only received 25 percent. Both opponents had a close competition among 35 to 59 year olds, while Merz was marginally ahead among those over 60 with 36 percent. Despite an exciting duel, there was little overall change in viewers' attitudes towards the two politicians, as over half said that their opinion of Scholz (57 percent) or Merz (62 percent) had not changed.

The debate marks the start of a series of TV duels that will take place over the next few weeks, including with other top candidates. The next round will be dedicated to school children, followed by direct questions from citizens, while another duel is planned on Sunday on RTL.