Green light for the “von der Leyen II” Commission

The European Parliament has narrowly approved Ursula von der Leyen’s new College of Commissioners with 370 votes in favor, 282 against, and 36 abstentions, just enough to cross the threshold of 345 votes in favour requested by the principle of majority of votes cast. Despite von der Leyen’s appeals for unity and collaboration, this slim margin of 25 deputies reflects growing divisions within the Parliament.

The approval marks a decline in support compared to von der Leyen’s first mandate in 2019 when she collected 461 votes in favor, and also a decrease compared to last July’s vote, when the European People’s Party candidate for the helm of the EU Executive gained in a secret ballot the mandate to form the Commission anew with 401 yes votes. This time, the process was fraught with partisan squabbles and intense negotiations, leaving cracks in the pro-European coalition.

Political Disputes and Confirmation Challenges

The support for the new Commission was marred by intense political infighting. Partisan clashes during the hearings delayed nominations and reshaped responsibilities within the team.

One major controversy centered on Teresa Ribera, whom was assigned the Clean, Just, and Competitive Transition portfolio. Spanish member of the Parliament belonging Partido Popular (PP) criticized her management of the prevention policies Valencia flash floods disasters, despite Ribera insisted on the response to be primarily based at regional level.

Other appointments also sparked heated debates. The Socialists & Democrats (S&D) and Renew Europe opposed Raffaele Fitto’s role as Executive Vice-President, citing his ties to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and concerns about normalizing far-right politics. Additionally, Olivér Várhelyi faced criticism for his close connection to Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and a history of controversial remarks.

In response, MEPs negotiated compromises, including reassigning Várhelyi’s responsibilities for reproductive rights and health preparedness. Despite tensions, the European People’s Party (EPP), S&D, and Renew Europe issued a nine-point statement to reinforce their centrist coalition and counter fears of a “Venezuela majority,” a bloc uniting EPP with far-right lawmakers.

A change in balance

Despite partially losing support from the Greens, von der Leyen secured backing from Italy’s Brothers of Italy and Belgium’s New Flemish Alliance, both affiliated with the hard-right ECR. These groups had previously opposed her second term in June but supported the Commission during this vote.

The new Commission is set to take office on December 1, 2024, following its formal appointment by the European Council. However, the path ahead remains challenging, with political fragmentation threatening to test its ability to deliver on its promises of unity and progress.