European Social Democrats are considering withdrawing their support for Ursula von der Leyen, President of the Commission, if she continues to hide her cooperation with the far-right ECR group. This threat includes prominent figures like German Social Democratic Chancellor Olaf Scholz, indicating that the SPD and its parties are prepared to block von der Leyen’s further term.
Katarina Barley, the top candidate of the SPD, has explicitly stated that they will not work with the far right, echoing a declaration from European Parliament groups rejecting alliances with radical parties. The debate over potential cooperation with the far right extends to the EPP’s top candidate von der Leyen, who has left the door open to working with ECR if traditional coalition efforts fail.
Chancellor Scholz has criticized von der Leyen’s plan, emphasizing the importance of forming a new European Commission with support from traditional parties rather than relying on a parliamentary majority that includes those on the extreme right. Nicolas Schmit, leader of S&D group in Europe, has also weighed in questioning von der Leyen’s willingness to work with those on the far-right spectrum.
Finland is also grappling with discussions surrounding alliances with the far right, with SDP Chairman Antti Lindtman emphasizing that social democrats do not support extreme rights rising in Europe. Should von der Leyen be replaced for another term, French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly pursuing Mario Draghi for leadership roles within either commission or council.
While Draghi has previously expressed disinterest in commission presidency role rumors suggest he may be reconsidering his decision as it appears uncertain whether he will have enough support from key figures like Scholz and Macron at this point.
