Euronews

Following intense questioning by the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen was successfully re-elected as president of the European Commission in a decisive vote on Thursday.

POLITICO

The European Parliament elected Ms. van der Leyen with a strong majority of 401 votes, ensuring stability and continuity for the 27-member bloc. There were 284 votes opposing, 15 abstentions, and seven votes that were invalid.

Associated Press

Following the far right's significant gains in the European Parliament election in June, her reelection was far from guaranteed. Analysts viewed the secret ballot as a significant threat. However, she passed with a larger margin this time than she did in 2019. 

France 24

Earlier Thursday, von der Leyen presented her second term priorities in a 31-page policy paper. She promised to boost the EU economy, policy, and borders to fight migration. She vowed to "never let the extreme polarization of our societies become accepted," defending the democratic "European way of life."

BBC News

After the vote, Ms. van der Leyen said, "You can imagine this is a very emotional and special moment for me," calling the vote a vote of confidence. Ms. von der Leyen pledged to raise the European military budget and meet climate goals.

Von der Leyen also promised to "turbo charge investment" for the EU's "green, digital, and social transition." She also said she would appoint a commissioner for defense, proposing a Europe-wide air defense system and cyber protection, all made necessary because of Russia's war in Ukraine.

Associated Press #3984

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CNN #

Ursula von der Leyen outlined her political agenda for the next five years and garnered more support in the secret ballot in the European Parliament than anticipated, resulting in her re-election for a second term as President of the European Commission. The election held on Thursday demonstrated a strong belief in Ms. von der Leyen's leadership and will provide continuity and stability during these challenging times.

Europarl

Parliament re-elects Ursula von der Leyen as Commission President

Johannes Simon / Stringer / Getty Images News via Getty Images***PLEASE REPLACE WATERMARKED IMAGE***

European Parliament to vote today  on new Commission President

Politics

Europe

0Before the vote, von der Leyen received the backing of the three big groups, the conservatives, the Social Democrats, and the Liberals in the European Parliament. However, several MPs in these groups had said they would not support her. Von der Leyen was able to secure the vote because of the backing from the Green Group. While the Greens may not agree with all of van der Leyen's policies, they supported her to keep the extreme right from influence and power. A pro-Europe democratic majority will ensure stability.

Guardian

Ursula von der Leyen wins second term as European Commission president

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European Parliament to vote today on new Commission President

European Parliament to vote today on new Commission President

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