Lilja Alfreðsdóttir was elected as the new leader of the Progress Party, expressing a commitment to maintain the party's centrist position. She emphasized that she does not intend to shift the party to the right, unlike what she perceives as the moves of the splinter group, the Center Party. During the party congress, she vowed to enhance the party's centrist ethos, where it has historically been situated.

The outgoing leader, Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson, also addressed the party congress and many interpreted parts of his speech as criticism towards the Center Party. He noted that the Center Party has adopted rhetoric typical of extremist parties, particularly concerning immigration issues in recent months. The contrasting ideologies of the Progress Party and the Center Party were highlighted, with Jóhannsson advocating for a tolerant and liberal centrist stance rather than catering to populist trends.

This shift in leadership within the Progress Party signals a potential identity crisis for Icelandic political parties as they grapple with the pressures of populism and extremism. The commitment to centrist values may appeal to voters seeking stability amidst rising polarization, yet it raises questions about how effectively parties can resonate with the electorate amidst a changing political landscape.