Dutch Centrist Rob Jetten Narrowly Wins Election Over Far-Right Rival

Rob Jetten, leader of the centrist Democrats 66 (D66) party, narrowly won the recent Dutch general election, defeating far-right leader Geert Wilders by a slim margin of 28,455 votes after all ballots, including those from overseas voters, were counted. At 38, Jetten is poised to become the youngest and first openly gay prime minister of the Netherlands, marking a significant political and social milestone. His party secured 26 seats, tied with Wilders' Freedom Party (PVV), but Jetten is expected to form a coalition with several other parties to achieve a parliamentary majority. Jetten's rise reflects a shift away from populist and far-right politics toward a more progressive and centrist approach favored by Dutch voters. His personal background as an openly gay politician engaged to Argentine field hockey player Nicolás Keenan has resonated with many, symbolizing a modernizing moment in Dutch politics. The official election result will be declared by the Dutch Electoral Council, and coalition talks are underway to form the next government.