Why Merkel Is So Popular

The German election was a mixed bag for the German government. A great success for the CDU/CSU, but a disaster for the FDP. Overall however, support held up relatively well for the government, much better than other incumbent governments in recent elections in other countries. How come?

Well, there are probably many reasons, but clearly this has something to do with it

During Merkel's 8 year as Chancellor in Germany, the unemployment rate has dropped from about 11% to about 8%, the best development in Europe. Add to that a rising participation rate and rising real wages, and it is understandable that people would like her.

It is true that the reforms that caused most of this drop was implemented by Merkel's predecessor, Social Democrat Gerhard Schröder. But as she has defended the reforms while Schröder's party the SPD has to a large extent distanced themselves from them, she still deserves credit.