The Netherlands is on the verge of a historic political moment. Rob Jetten, the 38-year-old leader of the centrist-liberal Democrats 66 (D66) party, is poised to become the country’s first openly gay prime minister after his party’s strong showing in the national elections. According to media reports, Jetten’s D66 surged from fifth place to the top of Dutch politics in less than two years, running neck and neck with far-right leader Geert Wilders’ Party for Freedom (PVV).

With 98 percent of votes counted, both parties were projected to win 26 seats in the 150-member lower house of parliament. However, analysts say Jetten is far more likely to form a governing coalition, as most major parties have ruled out working with Wilders.

If Jetten succeeds, he will become the youngest and first op

See Full Page