Baudin Faces Backlash Over Comments on Proposed Liberal Party Leader

The Liberals have proposed Simona Mohamsson as their new party leader. Social Democrats' party secretary Tobias Baudin commented on the choice, stating that the Liberals are in "free fall." His statement has drawn criticism from multiple quarters.

Earlier today, the Liberals' nomination committee presented the name of a successor to the outgoing Johan Pehrson. The choice fell on Simona Mohamsson, who is currently the Liberals' party secretary.

Within her own party, she has received praise. However, her counterpart in the Social Democrats, Tobias Baudin, did not extend warm greetings. In a post on X, he wrote:

"The Liberals are in free fall – now Simona Mohamsson is proposed as the new party leader. But the crucial question remains: Will she lead a liberal party or continue to be a doormat for the Sweden Democrats?"

Faces Criticism

The post has been met with criticism from several politicians, including Johan Pehrson, who responded:

"Congratulations on the important assignment. That's enough for today."

Moderate MP Lars Beckman also criticized the post:

"The Social Democrats welcome the Liberals' new party leader. Do they lack all common decency?"

Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (M) also responded:

"A congratulations would have been appropriate."

Baudin's Response

In a written comment to Expressen regarding the X post, Tobias Baudin stated:

"It is no secret that we in the Social Democrats are critical of the Liberals' agreement with the Sweden Democrats. I also don't think I'm alone in wondering whether the party will now choose a liberal path or continue on the current path and deepen cooperation with the Sweden Democrats. Unfortunately, it did not become clearer after today's press conference," he wrote.

However, he also took the opportunity to congratulate Mohamsson:

"I naturally want to congratulate Simona Mohamsson on her nomination to one of the most significant and honorable political assignments in the country. It is a great responsibility, especially at a time when the Liberals' choices are questioned by many. I therefore wish her good luck in the ongoing process."