Dutch minority cabinet under fire as JA21 reverses stance on budget talks in Tweede Kamer

The Dutch minority cabinet led by Prime Minister Rob Jetten faced mounting pressure in the Tweede Kamer on Wednesday as budget negotiations exposed deep divisions over how to secure parliamentary support for its fiscal plans.
During the first day of the Algemene Politieke Beschouwingen, JA21 leader Joost Eerdmans reversed his party’s earlier stance, proposing that the cabinet negotiate support for individual policy areas—such as social affairs or climate—rather than seeking a single coalition partner from either the left or right. Eerdmans’ shift drew sharp criticism from other party leaders, with PVV’s Geert Wilders calling it “chaos in the chaos” and warning Eerdmans would be “gepiepeld” (mocked) for the inconsistency .
The confusion underscored the cabinet’s struggle to secure stable backing. Pro leader Jesse Klaver demanded the government “choose” a clear direction, insisting that cuts to social security be scrapped and wealthier individuals pay higher taxes. Meanwhile, VVD leader Dilan Yesilgöz, also vice premier and defense minister, signaled her party’s preference for aligning with JA21, a position D66 has resisted .
Earlier, Finance Minister Eelco Heinen was compelled to release a draft budget that had nearly triggered a government crisis after NRC obtained and published the document. A parliamentary majority forced its disclosure .
Opposition parties intensified calls for clarity, with Trouw reporting that the cabinet’s indecision had drawn frustration across the chamber, with critics urging it to commit to a coherent path .
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