Ursula von der Leyen secures second term amid mixed reactions
Ursula von der Leyen triumphs, and world leaders send their congratulations. After the German politician was elected for a second term as President of the European Commission, comments flooded the web—from both her supporters and opponents.
The European Parliament, in a Thursday vote, supported Ursula von der Leyen for another term as President of the European Commission. The German candidate received backing from 401 MEPs, while 284 were against. The absolute majority required for approval of the German politician's candidacy was 360 MEPs.
World leaders comment on von der Leyen's victory
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz quickly commented on von der Leyen's re-election as the EC President on social media.
"This is a clear sign of our ability to act in the European Union, especially in challenging times. Europeans expect us to lead Europe forward. Let's do it!" - wrote Olaf Scholz.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo also offered congratulations. "I am convinced that under your leadership, we can steer Europe towards a prosperous and safer future," he wrote on platform X. He added that he looks forward to "continuing close cooperation."
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed similar sentiments. "Thanks to your impressive skills and resilience, you maintained unity in the Union through several crises, from the pandemic to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Your continued presence at the centre of EU cooperation is reassuring," he congratulated her re-election.
"Dear Ursula," addressed von der Leyen the head of the Polish government. "Times are tough, but thanks to your courage and determination, I am sure you will do a great job. We will do it together," wrote Donald Tusk, congratulating the German on her re-election.
The right-wing is displeased
The far right opposed von der Leyen’s candidacy. Björn Höcke, a politician from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which was decidedly opposed, commented on the fellow German's victory: "As federal defence minister, she already failed completely. Now von der Leyen begins her second term as 'president of EU corruption'. Without choosing the best, sooner or later, both a state and even a confederation of states must collapse."
Meanwhile, MEP Beata Szydło from the PiS party posted a short video in which she said: "von der Leyen receives congratulations from the happy liberal-left majority, which is delighted that in the coming years it will be implementing its crazy ideas like the Green Deal."
