Pernille Rosenkrantz-Theil, the Social Democrats’ candidate for Lord Mayor of Copenhagen, has stated that the party will sit in opposition if she does not win the position. This stance has sparked discussion, but a political expert suggests it aligns with the party’s historical perspective and strategic considerations within Copenhagen’s unique political landscape.

Kasper Fogh Hansen, a former advisor with deep ties to both City Hall and the Social Democrats, stated that this approach is not surprising. He draws parallels to national politics, where the Social Democrats typically do not endorse candidates from other parties for top positions.

The Social Democrats view the Lord Mayor position in Copenhagen as particularly significant, as the party originated in the city and takes pride in its role in shaping Copenhagen. Rosenkrantz-Theil has explicitly rejected endorsing candidates from any other party, including those within the Red-Green Alliance. When questioned about supporting candidates from other parties such as the Red-Green Alliance or SF, Rosenkrantz-Theil was firm: “We are running for election to retain the Lord Mayor position in Copenhagen,” and “Then we sit in opposition.”

Copenhagen’s unique form of government and electoral system contribute to the feasibility of this strategy. While a majority at City Hall determines the Lord Mayor, other mayor positions are allocated based on the d’Hondt method. This means that even without the Lord Mayor role, the Social Democrats are likely to secure a significant leadership position if they remain one of the largest parties.

Hansen explains that this system fosters less stable coalitions compared to national politics, and that it could be tactically advantageous for the Social Democrats to remain outside the coalition that endorses the Lord Mayor. This is because the largest party in the second-largest group often has a high probability of securing their preferred position. This unique political environment has led to unexpected alliances and decisions at Copenhagen City Hall in the past.