Von der Leyen Re-elected with Ambitious Agenda

Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected for a second five-year term as President of the European Commission, securing 401 out of 707 votes in the European Parliament. Her re-election, seen as a move towards stability during a period of crises including the war in Ukraine and climate change, followed a campaign emphasizing her crisis management skills and pledges for a strong, democratic Europe. Von der Leyen's agenda includes strengthening the EU economy, tackling climate change, and bolstering defense and border agencies. Despite challenges from far-right gains and internal party disagreements, her re-election signifies continuity and a push against political polarization. She has also committed to maintaining the EU's climate ambitions, proposing a 'Clean Industrial Deal' and a European Defence Union.