Iratxe García Pérez was re-elected president of the European Parliament’s Socialists and Democrats group on Tuesday. She pledged to prioritise affordable housing, energy costs and workers’ rights in her new term.
The Spanish lawmaker was elected by acclamation for another two and a half years. According to the group’s announcement, the new term will make her the longest-serving president in the group’s history.
“This re-election is not mine alone. It is a shared mandate,” Ms García said after the vote.
This re-election is not mine alone. It is a shared mandate.
— Iratxe García Pérez, S&D chair
Housing and bills shape the renewed mandate
Ms García argued that European strength must include people’s ability to afford heating and young people’s chances of finding a home. She pledged to defend the Green Deal and push for fair wages and quality employment. She also called for protections against abuses by large digital platforms.
Her statement also called for a pro-European parliamentary majority committed to democracy, social rights, environmental protection and the rule of law. She also stressed Europe’s security and sovereignty, alongside the need to address the cost of living.
The group will elect its vice-presidents on Wednesday.
