The Left win but remain deeply divided

Denmark has moved to the left. With a turnout of 84.6 percent, the left wing won a large majority in the Danish parliament on Wednesday’s general election. The next prime minister is likely to be Mette Frederiksen, leader of the Social Democrats, who, with the support of 91 MPs, holds a 2 seat majority.

Lars Løkke Rasmussen, leader of the Liberal Party (Venstre) only has the support of 75 MPs, and has stepped down as PM to allow Frederiksen to try and form a government. But the drama is only just beginning. Forming a government with her three allies on the left is going to be a challenge. And just because the right wing lost power, it doesn’t mean they don’t see the election as a victory, of sorts.

I’ve absorbed all the news and analysis I can find after letting the dust settle. And I’ve whittled it down to four major headlines.

1. If you can’t beat them, join them
2. The left is split on immigration and economic policy
3. The Danish People’s Party are decimated
4. The right wing lost, but stand strengthened
5. A record number of votes were lost

To read the full article with GRAPHICS, click here, or follow this link: https://www.thedanishdebate.mothertongue.dk/home/episode-8-the-left-win-but-remain-deeply-divided

So what's next? Negotiations could take a few weeks, and in the meantime, there will be plenty of politics to discuss. How will the Left align on immigration? How will they raise money for their policies? And will voters be prepared to pay to realise their green vision?

This coming weekend I head to the political festival Folkemødet where I will be speaking to as many politicians, commentators and ordinary people that I can.

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