Dutch voters participated in a closely contested election on Wednesday, with opinion polls suggesting that at least three parties, including the far-right, could vie for the top position.
In a weighted poll on the eve of the vote, Geert Wilders’ anti-Islam Freedom Party (PVV) was tied for the lead with the conservative People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) led by outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
The election guarantees the Netherlands a new prime minister after Rutte’s resignation in July, ending his 13-year tenure. No party is expected to secure over 20% of the vote, and with late polls showing gains for Labour leader Frans Timmermans and Wilders, and a considerable number of undecided voters, various scenarios are possible.
Immigration, the key issue that led to Rutte’s last cabinet collapse, and climate change were central themes in the campaign. Wilders emphasized closing borders and zero asylum seekers, while Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgoz, Rutte’s successor at VVD, countered by highlighting Wilders’ exclusionary stance.
Pieter Omtzigt, a centrist lawmaker who founded his own party, may play a crucial role, trailing slightly behind the top three in the latest polls.
The election outcome will determine whether Dutch voters are willing to continue funding climate policies amid a cost-of-living shock. As a founding EU member, the Netherlands’ stance on exemptions from EU rules on agriculture and immigration will also be closely watched.
Voting booths closed at 9 p.m., with the first exit poll from national broadcaster NOS awaited. A first-place finish for Wilders could lead to a hard-right coalition with an anti-immigration stance, while a strong position for Timmermans might swing the government towards the center with increased spending on climate policies and social programs.
Rutte will remain in a caretaker role until a new government is likely installed in the first half of 2024.
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