Frederiksen's minister choice sparks anger in Denmark's Social Democrats

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen's recent ministerial reshuffle, particularly the appointment of Peter Hummelgaard as the new finance minister, has ignited anger and frustration within the Social Democratic party. While Hummelgaard appeared pleased at the announcement, the decision has created significant internal dissent, according to multiple sources close to the party.

Sources within and around the parliamentary group, spanning various party factions, suggest that Frederiksen's move is a definitive signal of her alignment in an internal succession struggle. This decision is seen by some as a power play, with one source stating, "Now we have the definitive proof of her autocracy. Her divide and conquer strategy is now just pure domination." Another expressed dismay, saying, "She has lost touch with reality. She is holding the party hostage."

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Now we have the definitive proof of her autocracy. Her divide and conquer strategy is now just pure domination.

Even supporters of Hummelgaard reportedly express a sense of shock. One individual noted that the prime minister "did not need to throw such a large hand grenade into the group. The humiliation of Wammen did not need to be so great." The appointment of Nicolai Wammen, the previous finance minister, is perceived by some as a public slight.

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She has lost touch with reality. She is holding the party hostage.

Beyond Hummelgaard's promotion, the distribution of ministerial portfolios among the party's internal 'coffee clubs' (factions) has also become a point of contention. Frederiksen has allocated ministerial positions, with Hummelgaard's faction receiving the largest share, including himself, Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen, Jeppe Bruus, and Ida Auken, alongside Frederiksen herself who is seen as aligning with this group. Other factions, like those led by Morten Bødskov, Christian Rabjerg Madsen, and Magnus Heunicke, received fewer posts.

Frederiksen has declined to comment on the specifics of the article. Her public explanation for the reshuffle was that the Social Democrats have fewer ministerial posts than before, and she decided that no Social Democratic minister would hold the same position as previously. The article also touches upon the broader implications of the new four-leaf clover government's internal dynamics and potential policy shifts, such as the appointment of a former environmental advocate to the environment minister role.

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She did not need to throw such a large hand grenade into the group. The humiliation of Wammen did not need to be so great.