Austria far-right candidate Norbert Hofer defeated in presidential poll
Far-right candidate Norbert Hofer has lost Austrias presidential election.On Facebook, he described himself as infinitely sad and congratulated Alexander Van der Bellen, former head of the Greens, on his victory. Although the post is ceremonial in Austria, the poll had been seen as a sign of how well populist candidates might do elsewhere in Europe.Mr Van der Bellen called the result a vote for a pro-European Austria based on freedom, equality and solidarity. Referring to the Austrian flag, he said a red-white-red signal of hope and change, a red-white-red signal today goes from Austria to all the capitals of the European Union. Finally, you know, I will try to be an open-minded, a liberal-minded and first of all a pro-European federal president of the Republic of Austria.Sundays vote was a rerun of Mays election, which Mr Van der Bellen narrowly won but was marred by postal vote irregularities. He said there had been significant changes - Brexit, the US election - since then, along with an increase in political interest - an enormously broad electoral movement. Media captionI will try to be an open-minded, a liberal minded, and first of all a pro-European federal president - Van der Bellen His margin in May - 30,000 votes - had now increased tenfold. European Union leaders have been welcoming the result, which comes amid fears of populism undermining established parties. European Council President Donald Tusk conveyed wholehearted congratulations while Germanys Social Democrat Vice-Chancellor, Sigmar Gabriel, called the result a clear victory for reason against right-wing populism. French President Francois Hollande thanked Austria for choosing Europe and openness. France, the Netherlands and Germany all face elections next year in which anti-mainstream and anti-immigration parties are gaining ground.A referendum under way in Italy is being closely followed for further signs of anti-establishment populism, with polls suggesting a setback for centre-left Prime Minister Matteo Renzi. Like and share more for more. Please subscribe. See you in different news!
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