A dramatic political coup has transformed local government in Middelfart, Denmark. For the first time in 108 years, the city will not have a Social Democratic mayor. The political shakeup follows a stunning party switch by council member Ulla Sørensen.
Venstre politician Anders Møllegaard now becomes Middelfart's new mayor. He announced his appointment during a press conference at Middelfart City Hall on Thursday. The leadership change concludes intense negotiations triggered by Sørensen's unexpected move from the Social Democrats to Venstre.
Just days earlier, Social Democrat Johannes Lundsfryd Jensen had declared himself mayor with 13 out of 25 council seats. His confidence proved premature when his former ally changed parties. The political landscape shifted instantly.
During Thursday's negotiations, a visibly shaken Jensen addressed his fellow politicians directly. 'I never thought we could sink so low,' he stated. 'I am an indomitable optimist. I have always believed in the good in people, and I must say I'm struggling to hold on to that view of humanity.'
The disappointed Social Democrat held the mayor position for barely 24 hours before Sørensen's defection. Jensen expressed his frustration publicly, questioning both Sørensen's decision and other parties' willingness to accept her. 'I don't think she can do this with a clear conscience. But I also don't think the other parties can accept her with a clear conscience,' he told reporters before his wife escorted him away.
This political drama represents more than just personal betrayal. It marks the end of an era in Danish local politics. Social Democrats have governed Middelfart since 1917, through world wars, economic crises, and massive social changes. The party's local dominance seemed unshakable until this week.
The vote numbers reveal interesting dynamics. New mayor Anders Møllegaard received 1,542 personal votes. The ousted Jensen collected 1,702 personal votes. Ulla Sørensen, whose switch made the coup possible, received only 252 personal votes. This discrepancy raised questions about her political mandate.
When questioned about her low vote count, Sørensen defended her qualifications. 'I have been on the city council for eight years. I have a broad foundation regarding my background. And I am the only one who can cooperate with everyone on the city council,' she responded.
Sørensen previously served as first vice mayor and sat on the Social and Health Committee. Her professional background as a social counselor and position on the Middelfart Church parish council provided additional community credentials.
The political maneuver has generated broader public anger beyond the council chambers. Two voters who personally supported Sørensen expressed outrage and regret about their choice. A 19-year-old former Social Democratic colleague organized a demonstration named 'Demonstration against politician disgust' outside city hall.
Local political observers note this reflects growing volatility in Danish municipal politics. Traditional party loyalties appear weakening as personal ambitions and local issues gain prominence. The Middelfart situation demonstrates how single individuals can dramatically alter political landscapes that seemed settled for generations.
What comes next remains uncertain. The new Venstre-led administration must quickly establish governing stability. Meanwhile, local Social Democrats face their greatest challenge in over a century—rebuilding from opposition in a community they've long considered their stronghold.