D66 experienced significant voter shifts in the recent elections, drawing support from various parties, particularly GroenLinks-PvdA, while retaining a substantial portion of its 2023 voters. A recent survey by Ipsos I&O Kiezersonderzoek commissioned by NOS, reveals that two-thirds of D66 voters previously supported different parties in the 2023 parliamentary elections.

The research indicates that a fifth of D66’s voters previously voted for GroenLinks-PvdA. While a smaller percentage switched from the VVD, a notable 7 percent came from the PVV.

Despite these shifts, party leader Rob Jetten maintained voter loyalty, with two-thirds of those who voted for D66 in 2023 doing so again. The VVD and PVV had lower rates of voter retention, at 56 and 52 percent, respectively. The SGP had the highest voter loyalty, with 89 percent remaining with the party.

D66’s gains were particularly strong among female voters, with almost 15 percent of Dutch women choosing the party. In contrast, the PVV and VVD attracted more male voters.

The study also highlighted differences in education levels among the voters of the largest parties. D66 and GroenLinks-PvdA performed best among highly educated voters, while the PVV appealed more to those with low to middle levels of education. The CDA and VVD showed less variation across different education levels.

Furthermore, D66 attracted many voters in their thirties and forties. Among older voters, if only people aged 65 and over had voted, the CDA would have emerged as the largest party.

Jetten’s housing market plans appeared to resonate with voters, as almost 16 percent of D66 voters cited this as their most important issue. For VVD voters, the economy was the top concern, while GroenLinks-PvdA voters prioritized climate change, and CDA voters focused on values and norms. Immigration and asylum were the primary issues for PVV voters.