‘He is a hypocrite’: Netizens debate as Rob Jetten becomes the Netherlands’ youngest and first openly gay Dutch PM

At just 38, Rob Jetten has taken charge as the youngest and first openly gay prime minister of the Netherlands, triggering sharp global reactions within minutes of his swearing-in on February 23, 2026. His rise marks a generational shift in Dutch politics — but the celebration has been anything but unanimous.



Jetten, leader of Democrats 66 (D66), took the oath before King Willem-Alexander in The Hague. His party stitched together a three-party coalition with the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). However, the alliance controls just 66 of the 150 seats in the lower house, making it a minority government that will constantly need outside backing to survive key votes.

The October 2025 snap election saw D66 narrowly edge past Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), underscoring how divided the country remains. For many supporters, Jetten represents a progressive, pro-European shift. For critics, he signals a break from traditional political leadership.



The announcement quickly went viral, sparking celebration, sarcasm and sharp political criticism all at once. One user said, “38 years old, openly gay, running an entire country. meanwhile most countries can't even elect someone under 60. the netherlands just casually reminding everyone what actual progress looks like”. Another wrote, “Some countries are progressing further and some countries are going backwards, like the UK and the US”.

Criticism followed just as fast, with one user saying, “The Dutch used to be conquerors, now they've been reduced to this”. Another wrote, “Dont let this trick you, before he became the prime minister, he bragged about “speaking up about Palestine” but he rejected a statement regarding sending help to the Palestinians! He is a hypocrite”. Amid the debate, one user asked, “What other achievements does he have?”





Beyond symbolism, Jetten walks into office facing urgent and politically sensitive challenges. His minority coalition must prove it can function in a fragmented parliament where every vote counts. The Netherlands is battling a severe housing shortage, rising living costs, and farmer protests linked to nitrogen emission reduction policies that have sparked nationwide demonstrations in recent years.

Immigration remains another flashpoint issue, having fuelled support for the far-right during the election. Proposed welfare reductions and stricter migration controls could test both coalition unity and Jetten’s progressive image. On the global stage, maintaining strong European ties and continuing Dutch support for Ukraine will be closely watched. History has been made — but whether Jetten’s leadership becomes transformative or turbulent will depend on how he handles the pressure that comes with governing, not just representing change.