Ursula von der Leyen seeks key support for her re-election in the European Commission

The candidate of the European People's Party for the presidency of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is in the midst of an intense electoral campaign and has expressed her confidence in having the support of several key European leaders to remain in her position after the European elections. In a meeting with journalists in Porto, Portugal, Von der Leyen stated that she feels supported by many leaders who know her and her experience, which gives her confidence in her aspiration to continue leading the European Commission. Von der Leyen highlighted the importance of unity within her party, the European People's Party, as a basis for building a broad coalition that strengthens Europe as a whole. With the certainty that members of her political family support her goals, the candidate is at a crucial moment where she must secure the support of both the European Council and the European Parliament to achieve her nomination as President of the European Commission. The task will not be easy, as Von der Leyen will need at least 361 votes from the 720 Members of the European Parliament to confirm her position. Despite having the support of parties affiliated with the EPP, such as the Social Democrats and Liberals, uncertainty lies in the possible influence of far-right and ultra-conservative parties in decision-making, as indicated by polls. The European People's Party seeks to establish a solid base for negotiations, considering that the combination of Popular, Social Democrats, and Liberals could exceed 50% of the seats in the European Parliament. However, the secret vote presents an uncertain scenario, with possible internal dissent and discontent from some sectors, such as the French Popular Party. Faced with the need to consolidate a favorable majority, Von der Leyen must decide whether to seek alliances with parties such as the Greens/European Free Alliance or with ultra-conservative sectors, such as the Brothers of Italy, led by Giorgia Meloni. This strategy carries risks, as it could lose the support of Social Democrats and Liberals, who consider certain approaches to the extreme right unacceptable. When asked about the possibility of dialoguing with the Greens to ensure a supporting majority, Von der Leyen reaffirmed her commitment to working from the center and expressed her willingness to collaborate with all MEPs who share a pro-European vision, support Ukraine against Russian aggression, and defend the rule of law. In the midst of a complex and constantly evolving political scenario, Ursula von der Leyen faces a crucial challenge in her political career, in which the ability to build alliances and ensure solid support will be decisive in securing her continued leadership of the European Commission. Uncertainty and the need to balance diverse interests mark the path towards a possible re-election of the EPP candidate, in a European context marked by political diversity and the importance of unity in decision-making that affects the future of the continent.