Johan Pehrson Resigns as Swedish Liberal Party Leader

Johan Pehrson, leader of Sweden's Liberal Party and the country's education minister, has announced his resignation in a strategic move aimed at reviving the party's declining support ahead of the 2026 election. The Liberal Party, currently the smallest in the ruling coalition, has seen its popularity drop to 2.8%, below the 4% threshold needed to secure parliamentary seats. Pehrson's departure comes amid divisions within the party over its relationship with the Sweden Democrats, who, despite being the second-largest party, are currently excluded from government roles but seek cabinet positions in the next government. The timing of the resignation is intended to give new leadership a chance to rebuild support before the next general election, where the opposition Social Democrats currently lead in the polls. The party has not specified whether Pehrson will remain as education minister or detailed the process for choosing his successor, leaving questions about its immediate future direction. This leadership transition marks a pivotal point for the Liberals as they seek to redefine their stance within Swedish politics.