Ebba Busch, Sweden’s Minister for Energy and Business, embarked on a trip to the United States in early January 2025, seeking to attract American investment in Sweden. The trip, which included a high-profile speaking engagement at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, presented an opportunity for Busch to showcase Sweden’s strengths on a global stage. Behind the scenes, however, the trip provided a glimpse into Busch’s political maneuvering, her reflections on her decade-long leadership of the Christian Democrats, and her ambitions for the future. Facing dwindling poll numbers and a party teetering on the edge of parliamentary representation, Busch grappled with how to reshape her public image and revive her party’s fortunes.
The article paints a picture of a politician at a crossroads. Busch recognizes the need to soften her ”pitbull” persona, the combative style that characterized her exchanges with political opponents, including former Prime Minister Stefan Löfven. She expresses admiration for her current rival, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, acknowledging her reasoned approach to policy, and even hinting at potential common ground on issues like healthcare. This more conciliatory tone, however, seems somewhat at odds with Busch’s continued defense of her sharp-elbowed tactics and her close relationship with Jimmie Åkesson, leader of the far-right Sweden Democrats. This alliance, forged in the controversial Tidö Agreement that brought the current government to power, remains a defining aspect of Busch’s political identity, even as she seeks to project a more moderate image.
Busch’s trip to the US provided a platform for her to promote Sweden as a hub for innovation and investment. Her presentation at CES, showcasing Sweden’s natural beauty, family-friendly policies, and iconic brands, was met with enthusiasm from the Swedish delegation. However, back home, reactions were more mixed, reflecting the polarized political landscape and Busch’s own divisive reputation. This contrast highlights the challenge Busch faces in bridging the gap between her international image and her domestic standing. The article also delves into Busch’s personal reflections on her leadership journey. She expresses frustration at being misunderstood, both by the media and the public, and a weariness with her role as the ”bulldozer” for the Tidö coalition. She acknowledges the toll of public life on her family, sharing a touching anecdote about shielding her children from her political persona.
The article explores the complexities of Busch’s political strategy. She prides herself on her attention to detail, her ability to master the nuances of policy, and her shrewd negotiation tactics. This meticulous approach, she argues, allows her to find common ground with even the most unlikely allies. She reveals the inner workings of her relationship with Prime Minister Kristersson, built on trust and a shared vision for a right-leaning government. She also discusses her pivotal role in opening the door for collaboration with the Sweden Democrats, a move that reshaped the Swedish political landscape. This alliance, while politically expedient, has also been a source of controversy, raising questions about Busch’s own ideological commitments.
Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, Busch faces an uphill battle. Her party’s poll numbers remain stubbornly low, and the long-term viability of the Tidö coalition is uncertain. Despite promises of new nuclear power plants and a focus on economic growth, Busch must contend with skepticism about the government’s climate policies and its ability to deliver on its ambitious agenda. The article highlights the tension between Busch’s long-term vision and the immediate pressures of electoral politics. She acknowledges the need for patience and emphasizes the importance of laying the groundwork for future progress, even if the results are not immediately apparent.
The article concludes with a glimpse into Busch’s more personal side. She shares anecdotes about her upbringing, her early political experiences, and the challenges of balancing family life with the demands of public office. She discusses her admiration for Annie Lööf, former leader of the Center Party, acknowledging the shared experience of navigating motherhood and political leadership under intense scrutiny. She also reflects on the low points of her career, including the 2015 refugee crisis, the start of the pandemic, and the dissolution of the center-right Alliance. These moments, she says, have shaped her leadership and instilled in her a deep appreciation for the complexities of political life. The article leaves the reader with a sense of a politician striving to reconcile her ambition with the realities of power, and seeking to define her legacy in a rapidly changing political landscape.
