## Senator leaves increasingly right BBB to join centrist D66 A growing divide within the BoerBurgerBeweging (BBB) over the party's rightward political course has led one of its members in the Eerste Kamer (Senate), Arie Griffioen, to leave the party and join the centrist Democrats 66 (D66). ### Reason for the switch In a letter addressed to Senate Chair Mei Li Vos, Griffioen explained his decision, citing the BBB’s “increasingly right-wing trajectory” as the key reason for his departure. He expressed concerns that this shift no longer aligned with his political principles or the party’s initial goals. ### Reaction and implications The departure underscores ongoing internal tensions within the BBB, which has faced criticism from both moderate and conservative members. D66, meanwhile, continues to attract figures looking for a more centrist and progressive platform within Dutch politics. > “The ideological direction of the BBB has changed significantly since I joined,” wrote Arie Griffioen. Griffioen’s move strengthens D66’s position in the Senate while raising questions about BBB’s future stability and identity as a representative movement for rural voters. *** **Author’s summary:** Senator Arie Griffioen left BBB due to its rightward shift, joining the centrist D66, reflecting deepening divisions within the party and boosting D66’s Senate presence.

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NL Times — 2025-11-28