Magdalena Andersson, leader of Sweden’s Social Democrats, was defeated in the
first parliamentary vote for prime minister. Andersson received 99 votes in
favor — matching her party’s seat count — 248 against and two absent; she has
not yet secured necessary agreements with allies. Under Swedish law parliament
may hold up to four votes for a PM candidate; if all fail a new election must be
called, so Andersson could face further ballots in the coming weeks and improves
her prospects only if she secures allied support before the next vote.
