Lawmakers reject two motions of no-confidence against EU chief

A total of 594 lawmakers cast their ballots

European Parliament members have turned down both motions of no-confidence against European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which criticized her leadership style and certain decisions, and demanded she resign.

Voting took place at the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, which was broadcast on the legislature’s official site.

A total of 594 lawmakers cast their ballots. Two-thirds of the votes were needed for the motions to pass.

The first document, submitted by right-wing forces, noted that the EU was currently weaker than ever due to the European Commission chief’s inability to resolve issues in various fields, from the economy to security.

The authors also highlighted a lack of transparency in her decisions and accused her of abusing power, particularly with regard to trade deals with Latin American countries and the US. As many as 179 lawmakers supported the motion, and 378 opposed it, while 37 abstained.

The second document, drafted by left-wing parties, also blamed von der Leyen for making deals without the proper authority, and said that those agreements came at the expense of EU citizens. A total of 133 European Parliament members voted in favor of the motion, with 383 against and 78 abstaining.

The previous no-confidence vote against the European Commission president took place on July 10, when the relevant motion was supported by 175 out of 720 lawmakers.