German Chancellor Scholz cautions against far-right support in EU elections

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warned that the next European Commission president should not get support from far-right parties in the upcoming election. If the far-right gains a lot of support, it could be difficult for the new president to lead effectively with only traditional political groups backing them. Scholz emphasized the need for the new president to have support from the traditional parties to establish a strong presidency. Scholz, a Social Democrat leading an unpopular coalition in Germany, did not mention specific statements but his warning is likely directed towards the current Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, who might seek a second term. Von der Leyen, a German conservative, is part of the European People’s Party group in the European Parliament. She has hinted at working with some far-right parties, like the European Conservatives and Reformists group, which could change the political landscape in Brussels. As the European elections draw near, political alliances are shifting. Recently, a right-wing group in the European Parliament expelled the far-right Alternative for Germany party due to scandals involving its leader. Scholz believes the rise of the far-right is due to uncertainty from economic changes, new technologies, and climate change. He suggests that developed countries can counter this trend by adopting a modernizing and inclusive agenda to ensure a positive future for all citizens.