Background and Context
In Romania, a country of 19 million inhabitants and a NATO member, the presidential race has taken an unexpected nationalist turn. With 11 candidates vying for a largely ceremonial yet influential role in foreign policy, the initial round of elections in November faced controversy due to alleged Russian interference. The election was eventually annulled, and a new vote took place on Sunday.
Key Candidates and Their Stances
George Simion, the leader of the nationalist party AUR and an admirer of Donald Trump, led the tally with nearly 40% of the votes after 90% of ballots were counted. Two pro-European candidates followed closely behind, each securing around 20% of the votes.
Simion, who describes himself as “more moderate” than his predecessor Calin Georgescu (whom critics accused of Kremlin sympathies), shares similar Europé-skeptic views. He has criticized Brussels bureaucrats for interfering in Romanian elections while advocating against military aid to Ukraine, a neighboring country, and reducing support for Ukrainian refugees.
Simion’s admiration for Trump is evident, often donning a cap with the slogan “Make America Great Again.” He aims to be Romania’s “MAGA president,” a message that resonates with some voters, like 67-year-old Stela Ivan from Alexandria, who hopes for change after decades of political dominance by the same parties since the fall of communism.
Second Round and Key Questions
Who will challenge Simion in the second round?
The suspense is palpable, as Crin Antonescu, the current pro-European coalition’s candidate and Bucharest mayor Nicusor Dan, are neck-and-neck in pre-voting surveys with approximately 20% of the votes. Prime Minister Victor Ponta trails slightly behind with around 15%, having campaigned on a Trump-like platform that included references to God.
Simion pledged to bring Georgescu “to power” through a referendum, early elections, or forming a parliamentary coalition that would appoint him as prime minister if elected president.
Post-election developments
The election has been closely watched following last year’s surprise annulment, which sparked protests and international criticism. US Vice President JD Vance even called for respecting “the voice of the people” and urged authorities to ensure a fair and transparent election. To prevent unrest, Romanian officials took preemptive measures and collaborated with TikTok, pledging their commitment to a just election process.
