Ursula von der Leyen's plan to present her new team of European Commissioners has been delayed amid political tensions, with sharp criticism from the LSAP over her handling of the nomination process and warnings that her cabinet may not secure a majority in the European Parliament.
On Wednesday, Ursula von der Leyen had planned to present her team of 27 European Commissioners, but this has been delayed. The official reason provided by her team points to delays in confirming Slovenia’s new candidate, Marta Kos, due to a parliamentary hold-up after the previous nominee withdrew in response to von der Leyen’s call for more female representation.
However, political tensions with the European Socialists are also lurking in the background of this decision.
Marc Angel, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from the Luxembourg’s Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP), expressed frustration with the handling of the process, stating: "We are not pleased to say the least and have now decided to apply public pressure. It is unacceptable how von der Leyen has treated us during this process. We are after all the second-strongest political force in Europe."
The European Socialists insist that Nicolas Schmit, their lead candidate in the European elections, be offered a position in the Commission, just as has been the case for previous lead candidates. They also oppose any potential nomination of a far-right Commissioner and echo von der Leyen's demand for a gender-equal Commission.
Should these demands not be met, the new Commission would not receive a majority in the European Parliament, according to Angel.
Ultimately, Luxembourg's government did not choose to send Nicolas Schmit to reprise his role as the EU Commissioner for Luxembourg, instead choosing former CSV MEP Christophe Hansen for the role, prompting disagreement from the LSAP.
Next Tuesday, von der Leyen will present her cabinet to the European Parliament, where each candidate will face a rigorous vetting process. With political tensions running high, it remains to be seen who will remain standing by the end.
