Swedish Liberal Party Divided Over Cooperation with Sweden Democrats Ahead of 2026 Election

The Swedish Liberal Party (Liberalerna) is embroiled in a significant internal conflict regarding its cooperation with the Sweden Democrats (SD), a debate that intensifies as the 2026 general election approaches. Party leadership, led by Simona Mohamsson, opposes the inclusion of SD ministers in government despite ongoing budget cooperation, while dissenting voices within the party push back strongly against any partnership with SD.

Jennie Claesson, leader of the Uppsala Liberal branch, has been particularly vocal, condemning the party's SD collaboration as damaging and threatening to resign if Liberalerna enters government with SD. Claesson argues that the cooperation has led to a decline in public support, with recent polls showing the party at a historic low of 2.2 percent. She advocates returning to a coalition resembling the previous Alliance government with the Moderate Party (M), Christian Democrats (KD), and Center Party (C), to preserve Liberalerna's social-liberal identity and distance from SD's controversial policies.

Meanwhile, some members like Runo Johansson from Tidaholm suggest removing all red lines against cooperation with both the Sweden Democrats and the Left Party (V), criticizing the inconsistency of current arrangements where SD is involved in budget decisions but excluded from formal government roles. This proposal has provoked heated debate ahead of an upcoming party meeting, with motions supported by parliamentarian Martin Melin calling for a more open approach to SD.

However, the party board remains clear that the next government must remain a coalition of the three center-right parties without SD ministerial involvement. Jan Jönsson, a party board member, emphasizes that Liberalerna should not collaborate with parties linked to disinformation or organized crime, and the Uppsala federation warns that SD's policies threaten the rule of law.

As Liberalerna navigates these internal divisions, the party faces the challenge of balancing ideological coherence with strategic alliances in a rapidly shifting political landscape. The upcoming landsmöte (party conference) is expected to bring these tensions to a head as members debate the party’s future direction.