Pernille Rosenkrantz-Theil, the outgoing Minister of Social Affairs and Housing, has now set her sights on a new and challenging role: Mayor of Copenhagen. Her departure from the ministerial position has not resulted in disappointment, but rather sparked a fighting spirit and anticipation. With Sophie Hæstorp Andersen preparing to enter the government, Rosenkrantz-Theil sees her chance to become the next spearhead of the Social Democrats (Socialdemokratiet) in the capital.

“We face significant challenges within the Social Democrats in Copenhagen. My hope is to be elected to the City Council (Borgerrepræsentationen), and from there we will see if the mayoral position could be mine,” she stated determinedly.

Politically known for her direct and decisive style, as noted by her former colleague Laura Lindahl, Rosenkrantz-Theil is ready to leverage her influence to restore the position of the Social Democrats in Copenhagen. Following a substantial loss of voters in the 2021 municipal elections, where the Red-Green Alliance (Enhedslisten) took the leading position, there is hope that Rosenkrantz-Theil can attract the lost votes and strengthen the party’s influence.

Rosenkrantz-Theil’s name has previously been linked to the mayoral position, particularly in 2020 after Frank Jensen’s resignation. At that time, Sophie Hæstorp Andersen was elected, but perhaps the time has now come for Rosenkrantz-Theil, who is prepared to take on the challenge.

However, the former minister has faced her share of controversies. Notably, she backed down after massive criticism regarding the government’s proposal to eliminate the requirement for criminal background checks in hiring for social services. She has also been involved in the decision to suspend Danish International Adoption, which sparked extensive debate and criticism.

Despite facing opposition, her commitment to the most vulnerable in society is undeniable. As a resident of Copenhagen, Rosenkrantz-Theil sees many areas where the city can improve, and she is ready to fight for these enhancements.

Since her first term in the Parliament (Folketinget) in 2001, Pernille Rosenkrantz-Theil has had a long and notable political career. From her time in the Red-Green Alliance to her switch to the Social Democrats and further to ministerial positions, she has proven herself to be a dedicated and goal-oriented politician. Whether her next step will be to become mayor of Denmark’s capital remains to be seen.