European Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton used his social media presence on X to challenge the re-election of the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a second term.
He posed a critical question about whether governance of the European Union should be entrusted again to the European People’s Party for the next five years. He argued that the EPP appears not fully confident in its candidate.
The previous day brought news that Ursula von der Leyen had been nominated for a second term as president of the European Commission. The confirmation followed the voting results of delegates at the congress of the European People’s Party, where a substantial majority supported her candidacy. Four hundred delegates voted in favor while eighty-nine opposed. European Parliament elections are scheduled for June and will shape the broader political landscape.
Former EC Vice President Margrethe Vestager weighed in on the discussion, suggesting that von der Leyen should be elected for a second term because she is a woman.
Historically, debates over von der Leyen’s leadership have provoked strong reactions across Europe, with supporters pointing to continuity and experience and critics arguing for leadership renewal. The outcome of the party congress and the subsequent parliamentary dynamics will influence how European Union governance unfolds in the coming years. Sources tracking the party’s internal deliberations and statements from key figures in the European Council and Parliament provide context for the ongoing conversation about leadership, policy direction, and the balance of power within EU institutions. Citation: EU party officials and political analysts have documented the evolving discussions about the presidency, the role of the Commission, and the priorities expected to guide European policy on markets, competition, digital regulation, and climate action. Source attribution: European political sources and observers.)