Romanians head to the polls today for the first round of a highly anticipated presidential election. According to the latest polls, ultranationalist and Eurosceptic candidate George Simion is in the lead, raising concerns across the European Union and NATO, and stirring unease among investors already wary of Romania’s growing budget deficit.
Simion Likely to Win First Round — Second Round Set for May 18
Unless one of the 11 candidates secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election is scheduled for May 18. Simion, head of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians, is polling at over 30%, placing him significantly ahead of centrist and pro-EU figures like Crin Antonescu and Nicușor Dan.
🔹 Key Point: Simion’s rise accelerated after his ally, Călin Georgescu, was disqualified from the race in March for ties to fascist groups and questionable campaign financing.
Controversial Platform: Anti-EU, Pro-Russian Rhetoric, and Regional Tensions
Simion opposes military aid to Ukraine and has called for the restoration of Romania’s 1940 borders, which would include parts of Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine. Both Moldova and Ukraine have barred him from entering. He openly criticizes the EU, supports Donald Trump, and has voiced anti-LGBTQ+ views, adding to domestic polarization.
EU and NATO on Alert — Financial Risks Loom
Analysts warn that a Simion presidency could transform Romania into a less cooperative NATO partner, shake investor confidence, and risk a credit rating downgrade. Romania currently holds the largest budget deficit in the EU.
Who Could Face Simion in Round Two?
- Crin Antonescu (65) – Former head of the National Liberal Party. Pro-Ukraine, supports increased defense spending and civil partnerships for same-sex couples. Backed by Romania’s three ruling pro-European parties.
- Nicușor Dan (55) – Bucharest mayor and independent, EU-aligned candidate. A French-educated mathematician focused on anti-corruption and bureaucratic reform.
- Victor Ponta (52) – Former prime minister turned ultranationalist. Wants “radical reform” modeled after the U.S., supports higher military budgets, and aims to build an “authentic” Romanian state.
- Elena Lasconi (52) – Leader of the Save Romania Union. Pro-Ukraine, supports civil partnerships but opposes same-sex marriage. Her support has declined since November.
What’s at Stake?
The newly elected president will replace outgoing leader Klaus Iohannis, who stepped down in February after the Constitutional Court annulled the previous election. The president of Romania plays a crucial role in foreign policy and national security, including:
- Appointing the prime minister and high-ranking officials
- Commanding the armed forces
- Representing Romania in EU and NATO
🔹 Important: Romania’s leadership could significantly shift foreign policy direction at a critical time for European security.
