Henk Jumelet has not yet packed the suitcases for a departure to The Hague, but that will undoubtedly change in two months. Since yesterday, the Drents Deputy knows that he is ninth on the concept of the CDA for the parliamentary elections. Based on the polls, this is more than sufficient for a place in parliament.
“Of course a lot can change, but with a place in the top ten the chance of a seat is quite real,” Jumelet realizes (63). The CDA currently only has five seats, but the party is doing well in the polls. The virtual number of seat fluctuates between 21 and 25 seats. “We worked hard to get things back in order. The party is in good shape, also in terms of organization.”
Although the name of Jumelet was already around in the national department of the CDA, a switch to the House of Representatives seemed no serious option lately. “But then the cabinet clapped and new elections were written out. Then I got the question from the party:” Gosh, are you going to apply too? “
Jumelet initially responded cautiously. “But the party board still wanted me to participate. After that I started to get used to getting a member of the MP. So I gave my word and yesterday afternoon I heard that they put me in nine place. I am very honored with that.”
The Christian Democrat has been active in politics for decades. “I have been an alderman in Emmen for almost eleven years, chairman of the CDA Drenthe and the campaign team. And now for more than ten years now and therefore the longest -serving in the Netherlands.”
According to Jumelet, that experience stood out at the party top. “There are many new people on the list, but they also consciously searched for political experience. And they indicated that the connection with the region is important. If I actually go to The Hague, I see myself as a northern and Drents MP. You should never forget.”
He wants to continue his involvement in regional themes such as the Delta Plan for the North and the Lower Saxony Line in The Hague. “I am hoping to keep it just as hard from the room. This place on the list creates obligations, and I am going to fill them in seriously.”
With regard to his future portfolio, Jumelet still keeps all options open. “That’s all after the elections of October 29. In Drenthe I had a broad portfolio, so there is probably something in between that the party says:” That’s for you. “
If Jumelet knows how to get a chamber seat, it does not mean that he will definitely leave Drenthe. “No, certainly not. During the week I will temporarily stay in The Hague, but I already said that I just keep living on Erica. We’re very comfortable there. Drenthe is really our place.”