Dutch news agency ANP confirmed that centrist party D66 received the highest vote share in Wednesday’s general elections, advancing party leader Rob Jetten toward becoming the Netherlands’ youngest prime minister at 38.

According to nationwide results, D66 surpassed the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders. The party is expected to lead the first round of coalition negotiations, a process that usually takes months in the Netherlands.

Three coalition partners needed

With roughly 18% of the vote, D66 will need at least three coalition partners to secure a simple majority in the 150-seat House of Representatives. The pro-EU, liberal party tripled its seat count thanks to an optimistic campaign and increased advertising spending.

Wilders’ support declines

PVV leader Geert Wilders lost much of the support that had brought him a surprising victory in the 2023 elections. The race remained tight until the end; preliminary results showed D66 narrowly ahead, though PVV briefly led toward the final count.

Coalition prospects and final results

While all mainstream parties have ruled out working with PVV, Wilders said his party would seek the first chance to form a coalition if it won the most votes. Final results are expected Monday, after counting votes cast by Dutch citizens living abroad.