Kristrún Frostadóttir expresses distress over Þórður Snær Júlíusson’s past comments ahead of elections in Iceland

In the lead-up to the 2024 parliamentary elections, Kristrún Frostadóttir, leader of the Samfylking party, expressed her distress over comments made nearly two decades ago by Þórður Snær Júlíusson regarding women. She described the experience of reading his past blog posts as shocking and disheartening, stating it felt like being “punched in the stomach.”

Þórður, who currently holds the third spot on Samfylking’s candidate list for Reykjavík North in the upcoming elections on November 30, has been scrutinized for derogatory remarks about women published anonymously on his blog almost 20 years ago. Kristrún stated that it is unfortunate to have to address such comments and emphasized that they do not reflect the party’s current stance on gender equality. She characterized the outdated writings as a product of a young man filled with insecurity and anger.

Kristrún revealed she had spoken to Þórður, who expressed regret over his past remarks and acknowledged the need for accountability. She believes people should be given the opportunity to learn and grow and that change is possible over time. She is hopeful that Þórður can demonstrate through his actions that he has evolved from the person who wrote those words.

Furthermore, Logi Einarsson, a prominent figure in the party and former leader, criticized Þórður’s past writings as deeply troubling and stated that he must face the consequences of his words, despite Þórður’s stated remorse and commitment to change.