Von der Leyen Faces Crucial Vote for Second Term

Ursula von der Leyen faces a crucial vote today in the European Parliament for a second term as European Commission President. She needs 361 out of 720 votes, with support expected from the European People's Party (EPP), Socialists & Democrats, and Renew Europe, which collectively hold 401 seats. However, the secret ballot nature of the vote and dissent within these groups make the outcome uncertain. Right-wing factions, including the European Conservatives and Reformists led by Italy's Giorgia Meloni, and Viktor Orban's Patriots for Europe, are largely opposed. Meloni's stance is pivotal, as her group's 78 votes could sway the result. Von der Leyen has been credited for her leadership during crises like the pandemic and the Ukraine war, but faces criticism for her positions on defense spending and climate policies.