The attacks, attributed to a mentally unstable Afghan immigrant, have shifted the narrative of the upcoming election on February 23rd heavily towards immigration rather than the previously dominant economic issues. Merz's strategy appears calculated to appeal to voters alarmed by this escalating violence, positioning his party as tough on immigration while aiming to capitalize on AfD's growing popularity in polls. While the AfD is currently polling second, far behind Merz's Christian Democrats, it has gained ground, posing a more immediate threat to existing political norms.

Previously, parties had worked diligently to maintain a "firewall" isolating the AfD, but the urgency of public safety concerns is pushing Merz to reconsider that stance. The political landscape in Germany is in flux as key players navigate this complex issue, with the potential for significant changes in immigration policy looming on the horizon.