Exit poll shows anti-Islam populist Wilders leading in Dutch election

Geert Wilders, a longstanding anti-Islam politician, is projected to have a significant victory in the Dutch general election, according to an exit poll conducted by Ipsos. After serving 25 years in the Dutch parliament, his Freedom party is anticipated to secure 35 seats, placing him well ahead of his closest competitor, a left-wing coalition. This outcome, if confirmed, will have a significant impact on Dutch politics. However, forming a government may prove challenging for Wilders as no single party can secure enough seats to govern independently. Additionally, three major parties have already expressed their reluctance to collaborate with him. The left-wing coalition, led by Frans Timmermans, is predicted to secure second place with 26 seats. Meanwhile, the initial frontrunners, the center-right liberals under new leader Dilan Yesilgöz, are expected to place third, preceding a recently established centrist party led by whistleblower MP Pieter Omtzigt.