Following the collapse of the Dutch government, voters across the Netherlands are expressing disappointment, concern, and uncertainty about the future political landscape. The fall of the coalition, triggered by disagreements over asylum policy, has prompted many to reconsider their political allegiances.
Stanley Beck, a 69-year-old caregiver from Amsterdam who voted for NSC in 2023, voices his disillusionment with politics, citing too much talk and too little action. While initially supportive of Geert Wilders’ stance on immigration, Beck laments the lack of progress and expresses regret for his NSC vote, possibly leaning towards voting for Wilders’ PVV in the future. He is particularly disappointed by the unfulfilled promise of freezing social housing rent, a measure he and his neighbors eagerly anticipated.
Mie Boers-Berg, a 90-year-old retired resident of Grubbenvorst and a VVD voter, expresses disappointment at the cabinet’s fall, questioning the necessity of the collapse. While not aligned with Wilders personally, she acknowledges his efforts and believes problems in the country are often overstated. She remains content with the healthcare system and expresses skepticism towards younger generations’ financial management. She is likely to vote VVD again.
Marco Scheeringa, a 54-year-old truck driver from Wolvega, is disillusioned with the PVV due to Wilders’ stance on Israel, marking a turning point for him because of the war in Gaza. Scheeringa, a right-wing voter, criticizes Wilders’ lack of attention to domestic issues, particularly his absence in Ter Apel, a town facing asylum seeker challenges, and questions his commitment to the Netherlands. He is now considering voting for the VVD.
Saskia van der Jagt, a 64-year-old writer from Utrecht and a D66 voter, voices deep concern over the rise of Wilders’ supporters and the potential for increased polarization. She fears the growth of anti-establishment sentiment and the consequences of a leader like Wilders representing such views. Van der Jagt longs for a broad center-left cabinet but struggles to reconcile her green, left-wing ideals with the need for increased armament in light of the threat from Russia.
Richard Grandia, a 25-year-old dairy farmer from Geldermalsen and a BBB voter, expresses uncertainty about the future of the agricultural sector following the government’s collapse. He fears for the future of farmers in the Netherlands and desires more clarity for the sector. While understanding Wilders’ decision to withdraw, he is now considering voting for either the BBB or the PVV, having lost faith in the NSC.