The Hague, Netherlands – August 10, 2023 – Criticism is mounting against VVD leader Dilan Yesilgöz following a social media post intended to showcase her continued work during the parliamentary summer recess. Talk show commentators on SBS 6’s “De Oranjezomer” have labeled the effort as “counterproductive,” sparking a debate about political messaging adn public perception.
Yesilgöz, 46, shared a video on her official social media accounts depicting her working on a laptop while dressed in summer attire. The post concluded with a question to her followers about their summer activities. This prompted scrutiny from panelists on “De Oranjezomer,” broadcast from the Media Park studio complex in Hilversum.
Summer Recess Scrutiny
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Host Hélène Hendriks expressed skepticism, suggesting Yesilgöz’s post felt performative. “Dilan Yesilgöz seems to be thinking: I need to show people that we’re still working hard, even during the summer recess,” Hendriks stated during the August 9th broadcast. She questioned the sincerity of Yesilgöz’s interest in her followers’ responses.
Former football referee Bas Nijhuis, a guest on the show, noted the nature of the comments received by Yesilgöz. “I’ve read those comments, but they aren’t about vacation plans. the content is often critical and addresses broader societal issues.”
Income and Inequality
Commentator Dyantha Brooks steered the conversation towards Yesilgöz’s salary,prompting a discussion about economic disparities. “What does dilan earn per year?” Brooks asked. Jack van Gelder estimated yesilgöz’s annual income at approximately €144,000, while the discussion ultimately settled on a figure of €150,000.
Brooks argued that Yesilgöz’s post, intended to connect with voters, could backfire. “She wants to prove she’s working through the summer, engaging with the country, but then she sees comments from people saying, ‘I work in healthcare,’ or ‘I’m a plumber, but I can’t afford a house.’ It creates a disconnect.”
Brooks continued, “I understand she wants to create content and reach young people, but this is counterproductive. She’s in an apartment with her laptop,asking about everyone else’s summer.”
Algorithm vs. Authenticity
Hendriks suggested Yesilgöz was unconcerned with the negative feedback, stating, “Of course, she doesn’t care, as if she paid attention, she’d realize there are more pressing issues.”
Brooks pointed to the algorithmic benefits of prompting engagement. “It’s good for the algorithm – every response increases viewership. You always have to ask a question! ‘What did you think of the broadcast?’ ‘What did you think of my yellow sweater?'”
Guest Sam van Royen, son of actor John van Royen, concluded, “You can always tell when something isn’t sincere, when someone is reading from a script. That’s when you won’t get genuine reactions.” The VVD currently holds 34 seats in the Dutch House of Representatives, making them a key player in the current coalition government led by Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
