George Simion, a vocal nationalist and prominent ally of former US President Donald Trump, has emerged victorious in the first round of Romania’s presidential election re-run, according to partial results released late Sunday evening.
The ballot was widely viewed as a critical test of the growing wave of right-wing populism and Euroscepticism within the European Union. Simion’s strong performance reflects a significant shift in Romania’s political landscape and underscores broader changes taking place across Europe ahead of EU parliamentary elections.
George Simion Surges Ahead in Tight Race
With over 85% of the votes counted, George Simion, leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), secured approximately 34% of the vote, putting him well ahead of center-left and pro-EU candidates. Analysts confirm this outcome positions Simion as the favorite in the upcoming run-off round.
His closest rival, independent liberal candidate Dacian Cioloș, garnered around 27%, while the rest of the vote was fragmented among multiple centrist and pro-European contenders.
Trump-Style Nationalism Gains Ground in Eastern Europe
Simion’s campaign has echoed many themes seen in Trump-era politics—national pride, skepticism of global institutions like the EU, aggressive anti-corruption rhetoric, and calls to “reclaim Romania” for ordinary citizens. He has repeatedly criticized Brussels, vowed to resist EU-imposed climate and migration policies, and championed Romania’s traditional values.
His rise is part of a broader trend across Central and Eastern Europe, where far-right parties are gaining popularity amid growing economic frustrations and migration concerns.
Election Re-Run Amid Controversy
This presidential vote is a re-run following the annulment of the original election held earlier this year due to irregularities reported in multiple precincts. The re-run saw increased voter turnout and tighter international monitoring, with observers from the EU and OSCE overseeing the process.
Despite concerns over inflammatory campaign rhetoric and misinformation, the Romanian Central Electoral Bureau stated that voting took place “without major disruptions.”
International Response and Political Impact
European leaders have closely watched the Romanian election, concerned about the growing influence of right-wing populists within EU institutions. A spokesperson for the European Commission stated, “We respect Romania’s democratic process and continue to engage constructively with whichever leadership emerges.”
Meanwhile, political observers in Romania say Simion’s lead is a signal of deeper dissatisfaction among voters, particularly young Romanians, over rising costs of living, government inefficiencies, and perceived foreign interference in domestic affairs.
What Happens Next
The final results of the first round are expected within 48 hours, but Simion is already preparing for the second round scheduled for May 19, where he will likely face Dacian Cioloș in a decisive head-to-head contest.
Campaign strategies are expected to intensify in the coming days, with Simion pushing his message of “Romania First” and Cioloș attempting to rally moderate voters concerned about the country’s place within the European Union.
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