European Commission Nominees Stalled Amid Political Strife
On Tuesday, the European Parliament concluded hearings for the members of the incoming European Commission, nominated by the member states and led by the current president, Ursula von der Leyen. By the end of these hearings, it was anticipated that each committee would vote to either approve or reject the candidates. However, the vote on the six vice-presidential candidates has been postponed until next week, leaving the new European Commission in a state of limbo. This impasse arises during a crucial time when European leaders agree that, following Donald Trump’s election as President of the United States, European institutions need to present a unified and ambitious front.
Individuals involved in the confirmation process indicate that the core issue does not revolve around the candidates’ qualifications or the merit of their responses during the hearings. Instead, the deadlock stems from political maneuvering. The six vice-presidents represent various European political parties and are predominantly affiliated with the governing coalition of the European Parliament. Five out of six candidates belong to parties that support von der Leyen’s new Commission. This includes members from the European People's Party, the European Socialist Party, and the Liberals. However, the sixth candidate, Raffaele Fitto, from the radical right group Brothers of Italy, adds complexity to the situation as he stands outside the governing majority.
Fitto's nomination is seen as a strategic move by von der Leyen to strengthen ties with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and secure a broader base of support. While the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) have been cultivating a more moderate image, the divisions within the newly emerging right-wing majority, informally dubbed the 'Venezuela majority,' complicate efforts to establish governance cohesion. The ECR, along with the Populars and other far-right groups, make up a parliamentary coalition that has exhibited unsteady support in votes.
Additionally, the tensions among political factions were evident during the hearings. The Progressive groups, primarily the Socialists and Greens, expressed concerns over Fitto’s appointment. Conversely, the Populars raised issues with the nomination of Spain’s Teresa Ribera due to her handling of recent floods in Valencia. These intraparty disputes contribute to the stalled process, as both sides attempt to negotiate their political agendas while jockeying for influence over the Commission's direction.
As it stands, the road ahead is uncertain. The Socialists are advocating for von der Leyen to reassess Fitto’s position, while the Populars are pushing for the removal of Ribera. Some leaders of the major parties are seeking a path toward consensus, aimed at overcoming existing divisions and advancing the approval of the Commission in its proposed form. Nevertheless, this compromise has its risks, as numerous insiders have remarked that the success of the six vice-presidents might be interdependent, with failure on one potentially leading to a systemic collapse for the entire slate.
This unfolding drama highlights the complex web of alliances and the intricate nature of European politics as leaders strive to navigate the challenging landscape of the European Parliament amidst rising populist sentiments and national interests.
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