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Frederiksen's party tops polls but loses ground
Denmark's Social Democrats, led by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, secured the most votes in Tuesday's general election but recorded their worst result in over a century, leaving her coalition bloc without a parliamentary majority.
Narrow lead for left-wing bloc
The Social Democrats captured 21.9% of the vote, translating to the largest share of seats in the 179-member Folketing. However, Frederiksen's left-wing alliance, known as the "red bloc," fell six seats short of the 90 needed for a majority, securing only 84.
The opposing "blue bloc," dominated by right-wing parties, trailed with 77 seats. Neither bloc reached the threshold required to govern alone.
Kingmaker emerges as coalition talks loom
The Moderates, a centrist party holding 14 seats, now hold the balance of power. Their leader, former Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, signaled openness to forming a cross-bloc government, telling supporters: "We're standing in the middle. We're ready."
Troels Lund Poulsen, head of the Liberals-the largest party in the blue bloc-ruled out another coalition with the Social Democrats, urging Rasmussen to align with the right instead. "It is possible to get a new direction in Denmark," he said.
Frederiksen vows to continue despite setback
Addressing supporters, Frederiksen acknowledged the disappointing result but struck a defiant tone. "There is nothing today that can make me sad that the Social Democrats have once again become the Danes' absolute favorite political party," she said.
The prime minister, who has led Denmark since 2019, added: "I have been responsible for this wonderful country for almost seven years. I am still ready to take on responsibility as Denmark's prime minister."
Domestic issues dominate campaign
The election was called months ahead of schedule, with Frederiksen hoping to capitalize on her handling of U.S. President Donald Trump's demands to acquire Greenland. However, voters prioritized domestic concerns, including rising living costs, economic stability, and welfare reforms.
Environmental issues also gained traction, particularly the high pesticide levels in drinking water linked to pig farming and the agricultural sector's climate impact.
Uncertain path forward
Political analyst Christine Cordsen suggested the most plausible outcome is a center-left coalition comprising the Social Democrats, the Red-Greens, the Moderates, and the Danish Social Liberal Party. However, negotiations could stretch for weeks as parties weigh their options.
Frederiksen's popularity has waned despite widespread approval of her crisis leadership, reflecting broader voter fatigue after six years in power.
