Norway’s Labor Party, led by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, successfully retained power in the parliamentary elections held on September 7, 2025. The party secured 87 seats, narrowly defeating a right-wing coalition that garnered 82 seats, according to the Norwegian news outlet VG. This election outcome highlights a notable resurgence for the populist right, particularly the Progress Party, which recorded its strongest electoral performance to date.
The Labor Party, known as Arbeiderpartiet, was able to form a government by aligning with a bloc of center-left allies. Despite maintaining control, the results indicate a significant shift in voter sentiment, with the right-wing parties making substantial gains since their ousting from government in 2021. During that election, the right secured only 68 seats after eight years in power.
In reflecting on the election results, Støre stated, “It is possible for the Social Democrats to win elections even when right-wing forces are on the rise in Europe,” according to VG. The implications of this victory are significant not only for the Labor Party but also for the political landscape in Norway, where the right wing is gaining traction.
Key Issues Influencing Voter Behavior
Political analysts have pointed to the pressing issues of cost of living, taxes, and healthcare as critical factors influencing voter decisions during this high-turnout election. Johannes Bergh, a national election expert at the Institute for Social Research, noted that while the right-wing parties gained momentum, the Labor Party benefited from the popularity of its finance minister, Jens Stoltenberg, and Støre’s trade deal with President Donald Trump.
With 99% of ballots counted, the results revealed a 1.9% increase in support for Labor, while the Progress Party surged by 12.3%, securing 22.9% of the overall vote. This marks the party’s most significant electoral achievement, positioning it as the primary opposition to Labor. Conversely, the Centre Party experienced a notable decline, losing 7.9% of its support, which analysts suggest contributed to the gains made by the Progress Party.
The Conservative Party, the second-largest party on the right, also suffered a decrease in support, with a loss of 5.7%. This shift indicates a reallocation of votes within the right-wing bloc, as voters appear to favor the more populist agenda of the Progress Party.
In a display of sportsmanship, both Sylvi Listhaug, leader of the Progress Party, and Erna Solberg, leader of the Conservative Party, reached out to Støre before midnight on election night to concede and offer their congratulations.
As Norway moves forward, the balance of power reflects not only the current political dynamics but also the evolving concerns of its citizens. With a growing right-wing presence, the Labor Party faces challenges in addressing the issues that resonate with voters, while also maintaining its governing coalition.