The EP’s composition, however, has not changed, and the “political attacks mounted by the left are expected to continue against Hungary”.

The Fidesz- KDNP group will continue to strenuously uphold Hungary’s interests in Brussels. MEP Tibor Szanyi of Hungary’s opposition Socialist Party said that “Fidesz and the liberals want to direct the European Parliament as part of a grand coalition ... From Hungary’s point of view, all this means is that Fidesz will team up with anyone to attain and keep hold of power: in Hungary with the far right, in Europe with the liberals. … The vote reflected a strong political will of the EP to isolate anti-EU, populist extremists.” T

he Socialist expressed hope after the vote that “by considering European values in the first place, the EPP would also draw conclusions and finally exclude Fidesz from its ranks”.

The green opposition LMP said that by supporting Tajani, Fidesz had aided a politician who promotes austerity measures and neo-liberal economic policies. Instead of representing the people, Tajani has always promoted the interests of economic lobbies, MEP Tamás Meszerics and LMP presidium member Péter Ungár said.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.