Going out with a bang!

Written by Arno Van Rensbergen• September 18, 2024• 12:23 pm• Highlighted Main, Politics
Sometimes the working week doesn’t start the way you hope. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had to deal with an insurgency within her own ranks. Important European Commissioner Thierry Breton unexpectedly resigned and slammed the door on Von der Leyen on the way out.
Like everyone else, Ursula von der Leyen had to learn from X on Monday morning that Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for the Internal Market, is resigning with immediate effect. The Frenchman says he can no longer work under Von der Leyen.
Things had not been going well between Breton and Von der Leyen for a long time, but final drop was that Von der Leyen herself tried to get rid of him. Breton had been nominated for a second term as European Commissioner by French President Emmanuel Macron. But Von der Leyen had suggested to Macron that Breton should be fired after all, in exchange for a heavier portfolio for the French in the next Commission.
Breton has definitely not been a devout follower in the European Commission. He had a strong portfolio, was responsible for the European vaccine task force during the Covid crisis, and represented one of the most powerful countries in Europe.
The way in which Breton, of all people, is slamming the door behind him is rarely seen. Before announcing his resignation, he first tweeted a drawing of a bright white painting – his new official portrait, according to Breton.
Not that the Commission President did not already have enough worries. The start of her second term has been anything but smooth. Von der Leyen was supposed to announce the composition and division of powers of her new team last week, but that was delayed. She may be able to provide clarity this week, although Slovenia still has to nominate a candidate. Moreover, Von der Leyen is still dragging a number of fires with her from her first term in office. The German is still under the magnifying glass of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, for her role in the mega deal with vaccine manufacturer Pfizer.