A Social Democratic mayoral candidate in the Danish town of Nyborg faces scrutiny over her backup career plan. Lone Smidt could return to lead the local labor union FH Fyn if her mayoral bid fails.
Local party chairman Thomas Jensen maintains full confidence in their candidate. 'This changes absolutely nothing for us,' Jensen stated. 'We have complete trust in Lone.'
Union documents reveal Smidt's potential return to FH Fyn, where she currently serves as interim chair following a death. The union represents approximately 60,000 members across Funen's trade unions.
Does this dual planning weaken her candidacy? 'No, and she doesn't need to justify herself to us,' Jensen responded when asked about the situation.
Another union representative criticized Smidt for 'playing both sides.' But Social Democratic district chair Janni Møller Sørensen defended the candidate. 'Lone has shown tremendous responsibility by stepping in as interim chair,' Sørensen noted. 'She could have said no because of her mayoral campaign.'
In a text message, Smidt called the situation 'unfortunate circumstances.' She explained she interrupted her leave to help FH Fyn because it felt natural. 'I'm in the middle of an election campaign and my focus remains unchanged: I want to be mayor,' Smidt wrote.
The union's new permanent chair will be elected in spring 2026, though no exact date has been set.
Political observers note that having backup plans is common among candidates, though public revelation can create perception challenges during campaigns. The situation highlights the tight-knit nature of Danish local politics where many leaders maintain connections across political and labor organizations.