Geert Wilders’ Freedom Party Sweeps Dutch Election in Political Upset

In a stunning political upset reminiscent of post-World War II Dutch politics, Geert Wilders, the far-right, anti-Islam populist, is set to claim a massive victory in the Netherlands’ parliamentary election. The surprise exit poll results project Wilders’ Freedom Party (PVV) to secure 36 seats, a considerable lead over his nearest rival, a left-wing alliance.

With 25 years in parliament, Wilders‘ triumph marks a significant shift in Dutch politics, sending shockwaves through Europe. The unexpected outcome is anticipated to resonate with U.S. conservatives, drawing parallels with the recent Argentina presidential election victory of self-described “anarcho-capitalist” Javier Milei.

In his victory speech, the 60-year-old Wilders expressed determination, stating, “We want to govern, and we will govern.” However, to achieve this, he must secure a coalition government by persuading other parties to join forces, aiming for a target of 76 seats in the 150-seat parliament.

The left-wing alliance, led by ex-EU commissioner Frans Timmermans, is poised to come second with 25 seats. Timmermans has unequivocally ruled out any collaboration with a Wilders-led government, setting the stage for potential political tensions.

Often likened to the “Dutch Donald Trump,” Wilders’ populist politics had previously consigned him to a role in the opposition. The unexpected landslide victory, revealed by an exit poll, appeared to catch even Wilders off guard. The only time Wilders came close to governing was in 2010 when he supported Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s coalition, but the alliance dissolved after 18 months.

Wilders’ election program outlines calls for a referendum on the Netherlands leaving the European Union, a complete halt to accepting asylum-seekers, and strict border controls. Notably, his platform advocates for the “de-Islamization” of the Netherlands, though Wilders adopted a milder stance on Islam during this election campaign.

In his post-election remarks, Wilders attributed his success to voter discontent, stating, “Voters said, ‘We are sick of it. Sick to our stomachs.'” He emphasized his commitment to ending the “asylum tsunami” and restoring the Netherlands to a position of prominence.

The election, prompted by the resignation of outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s coalition in July, witnessed the ascent of Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius, a former refugee from Turkey. Despite being a potential candidate for the country’s first female prime minister, her party is forecasted to lose 11 seats, ending with 23.

While the election had initially been deemed a neck-and-neck race, Wilders convincingly outpaced all opponents, leaving the political landscape in the Netherlands fundamentally altered. The path forward will now depend on Wilders’ ability to form a coalition government, a task that may require overcoming the reluctance of mainstream parties that have historically shunned him.