LiberalsThe European liberal party ALDE kick-started their selection process for a front-runner at their London congress, end of November. A common candidate will be elected by the party’s national delegation on 1 February, in what is expected to be a tight race…

Olli RehnEU Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs

Nationality FinnishChances Even if Rehn gets the liberals’ endorsement as single candidate on 1 February, it is unlikely that a liberal will get the Commission presidency, as ALDE is only the third largest political family in Europe. But Olli Rehn is praised for his work as economic affairs commissioner and could be considered for other top positions within the European institutions.

Guy VerhofstadtLeader of the ALDE Group in the European Parliament

Nationality BelgianChances Even if Verhofstadt gets the liberals’ endorsement as single candidate on 1 February, it is unlikely that a liberal will get the Commission presidency, as ALDE is only the third largest political family in Europe. Verhofstadt’s profile raises controversy with the EU member states in Council, as he is an outspoken euro-federalist.