Patriots for Europe Criticize Ursula von der Leyen’s Re-election

Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected as President of the European Commission by the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Thursday. The German politician received 401 votes in favor, 284 against, and 15 abstentions in a secret ballot. An absolute majority of at least 361 votes out of the 720-member body was required for her re-election.

Following the vote, von der Leyen, joined by EP President Roberta Metsola at a press conference, emphasized the need to strengthen Europe’s position. She stressed the importance of building robust defenses while continuing to work closely with Europe’s allies.

Von der Leyen described her re-election as a “strong message” and outlined her priorities for her next term,

which include enhancing social justice, boosting the economy, and ensuring safety and security. She also highlighted the necessity for democratic forces to unite in the face of internal and external threats to democracy.

Criticism of her re-election came from Fidesz MEP Tamás Deutsch, who claimed that a political deal had been made with the “pro-war” majority in the European Parliament. Mr. Deutsch accused von der Leyen of agreeing to attacks against Viktor Orbán’s peace mission in exchange for support. He suggested that this pact reflects a broader coalition in the EP that opposes fundamental Hungarian national interests and supports pro-war, pro-migrant, and gender-ideological policies.

Kinga Gál, another Fidesz MEP and first vice-president of the Patriots for Europe (PfE) fraction, argued that Europe is weaker today compared to five years ago and blamed von der Leyen for failing to promote peace, protect the EU’s external borders, or address issues related to gender ideology and agricultural policy.

Ms. Gál also criticized von der Leyen for allegedly using her position to exert political pressure,

including withholding EU funds from Hungary and the former Polish government, and handling vaccine contracts in a non transparent manner. She claimed that von der Leyen’s tenure has overstepped EU competences and violated the sovereignty of member states.

KDNP MEP György Hölvényi also expressed disappointment with von der Leyen’s re-election, arguing that Europe deserves better and that her leadership has made effective European cooperation more challenging.

Overall, the PfE Group, not supported von der Leyen’s renewed mandate. They contend that her presidency has weakened Europe and failed to address critical issues effectively.

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