Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected to a second five-year term as President of the European Commission following a vote by EU lawmakers. The decision was confirmed by a secret ballot in the European Parliament, where von der Leyen secured 401 votes in favor and 284 against. She needed a majority of 361 votes out of 720 to be re-elected.
In her final pitch to the European Parliament, von der Leyen emphasized her commitment to investing in EU infrastructure, advancing the green transition, and establishing a European Defense Union. She also expressed a resolve to counteract extreme polarization and maintain strong support for Ukraine amidst ongoing crises.
Von der Leyen’s re-election comes as the EU grapples with a shift towards the far right, evidenced by recent elections that saw significant gains for far-right parties. Despite this, von der Leyen received backing from several key political blocs, including the center-right European People’s Party (EPP), the Socialist and Democrats (S&D), and the Green bloc. Her proposals include enhancing defense capabilities, coordinating efforts for a Europe-wide air defense system, and boosting investment in digital and social transitions.
However, her tenure has not been without controversy. A recent ruling by the EU’s second-highest court criticized the Commission for its lack of transparency regarding COVID-19 vaccine contracts, a point that has drawn criticism from various quarters. Additionally, von der Leyen’s remarks on Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s recent diplomatic efforts with Russia were seen as a strong stance against perceived appeasement.
As von der Leyen begins her second term, she faces the challenge of navigating a complex political landscape while addressing both internal criticisms and external pressures.
Arguments in favor of Ursula von der Leyen’s re-election
Support from Mainstream Parties:
Von der Leyen’s re-election was supported by key blocs within the European Parliament, including the center-right European People’s Party (EPP), the center-left Socialist and Democrats (S&D), the liberal Renew Europe bloc, and the Green bloc
Achievements During First Term:
Her supporters highlight her leadership through significant crises, including Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They view her proposed policies for investment in infrastructure, defense, and climate goals as positive steps for the EU’s future
Arguments against Ursula von der Leyen’s re-election
Resurgence of Far-Right Influence:
Critics point to the increased influence of far-right parties in recent EU elections, which they argue reflects a shift away from the mainstream center and may challenge von der Leyen’s leadership
Criticism of Transparency:
Von der Leyen faced criticism over the lack of transparency regarding COVID-19 vaccine purchase agreements. A recent ruling by the EU’s second-highest court criticized the commission for not providing enough public access to these agreements.
Fox Broadcasting Company:
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen makes final bid for second term before vote
Cable News Network:
Ursula von der Leyen elected to second term as European Commission president