Members of the governing Christian Social People's Party (CSV) were far from delighted with the latest Sunday poll results, but party president and PM Luc Frieden remains outwardly optimistic, describing the results as merely a "snapshot in time".

Frieden pointed out that the poll had been conducted shortly after the conclusion of the government's social dialogue rounds, between 15 and 29 September, while the final round had taken place on 3 September. During that session, the government had announced a controversial pension reform, as well as discussions on Sunday work and extended shop opening hours. Nearly two-thirds of respondents believed that the government had acted improperly by making pension decisions without reaching an agreement with employers and trade unions.

Frieden acknowledged that the pension reform had clearly influenced the poll results. He explained that reforms of this kind are notoriously sensitive, both in Luxembourg and abroad, and that the government had stepped in only after it became clear that the social partners could not reach a compromise due to their diverging views. According to Frieden, the government assumed its responsibility under those circumstances, particularly through CSV ministers overseeing the issue, which he believes largely explains the outcome.

While he admitted that the result was far from encouraging, Frieden said it was not unexpected. He stressed, however, that despite a projected loss of four seats, the CSV remains the strongest party, still leading the coalition partner Democratic Party (DP) by more than five percentage points.

Meanwhile, the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) and the Alternative Democratic Reform Party (ADR) would likely have reason to celebrate if elections were held this Sunday, as both parties would gain two seats. Frieden, however, said it was difficult to pinpoint exactly where those votes were coming from. He argued that in uncertain times, voters tend to look for alternatives, and the lack of consensus on pension reform may have pushed some to explore other options. Still, he cautioned against drawing long-term conclusions, emphasising that governments and parties are ultimately judged on their full five-year programme rather than on a single, complex reform.

The poll also suggested that a three-party coalition between the DP, the LSAP, and The Greens (déi gréng) could now be mathematically possible, but Frieden expressed no concern. He underlined that the CSV and DP share a highly compatible political outlook and a constructive working relationship, adding that he is confident both parties will see the current legislative term through together.