As it happened: Ursula von der Leyen’s secret ballot triumph
Jul 19, 2024
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Politico's reporter Eddy Wax shares behind the scenes insights on MEPs' secret ballot election for Ursula von der Leyen, including strategic alliances and key issues within the EU. Discussions on the inaugural session of the European Parliament, rejection of the Patriots proposal, condemnation of violence, and insights on lobbying and political dynamics in Strasbourg. MEP reflections on Von der Leyen's election, European policy towards China, and rising political violence are also covered.
Ursula von der Leyen secured re-election through strategic alliances with political groups, overcoming criticisms and securing crucial support.
Von der Leyen emphasized key priorities for her second term such as business simplification, border security, and unity for EU progress.
Shifts in EU Parliament dynamics reflected by emerging right-wing groups like Patriots for Europe, impacting appointments and political discussions.
Deep dives
Ursula von der Leyen's Re-election Process
Ursula von der Leyen faced a re-election process that lacked serious challengers but was filled with speculation and suspense due to her policy choices and leadership style receiving criticism. She navigated intense horse trading and negotiations with different political groups to secure the 360 votes required, successfully earning the majority needed by engaging with the Greens and securing their support.
Ursula von der Leyen's Promises and Vision for the Future
Ursula von der Leyen outlined key promises for her second term, focusing on simplifying business operations, strengthening border security, addressing the housing crisis, and continuing initiatives like the Green Deal and promoting competitiveness. She emphasized unity and pledged to work with democratic forces towards progress and collaboration within the EU.
The Political Dynamics in the European Parliament
The European Parliament saw shifts in political dynamics with right-wing groups gaining strength and new alliances forming. The Patriots for Europe group, led by Viktor Orban, emerged, impacting discussions on appointments like vice presidents. While facing opposition due to a cordon sanitaire, these groups added diversity and altered the political atmosphere within the Parliament.
Challenges and Future Outlook in EU-Asia Relations
The outgoing Czech MEP highlighted the need for a pragmatic approach in EU-China relations, advocating for a realistic and constructive engagement that acknowledges China's global integration. He stressed the importance of avoiding ideological biases and promoting a 'modus vivendi' with China based on mutual interests. Reflecting on his term, he expressed concerns about increasing confrontational political climates and emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue and democratic values.
Farewell and Transition for Outgoing MEPs
As outgoing MEPs bid farewell, reflections on the past and future emerged. This transition marked the end of an era for some while highlighting the importance of continuity and adaptability in changing political landscapes. Amid challenges and achievements, shifts in political alliances and ideologies shaped discussions, underscoring the evolving nature of European politics.
Big decisions awaited the new class of MEPs this week: Whether to back Ursula von der Leyen for a second term atop the Commission; which committee assignments to pursue; and, most urgently, which Parliament bar to visit to get away from it all.
Join host Sarah Wheaton for a romp through the Strasbourg seat of the European Parliament, and relive a week that was so crucial for Europe's direction over the next five years.
Sarah is joined by POLITICO's Eddy Wax, who takes us behind the scenes of all the horse-trading and political maneuvers during the week, in which the parliament's key leadership positions were decided and the legislature's support for von der Leyen was confirmed.
She also speaks to several MEPs including Hannah Neumann, a Green MEP from Germany who was reelected, and outgoing MEP Jan Zahradil — the long-serving (and sometimes controversial) Czech MEP, who reflects on his 20+ years in the Parliament and describes what has changed for Euroskeptic politicians in the hemicycle.