Voter turnout in the parliamentary elections in Hungary has reached a historic high, with participation hitting 74.23% by 17:00—setting a new record for the country.
For comparison, turnout in 2022 stood at 62.92%, while the previous highest level of 73.51% was recorded in 2002. With more than an hour remaining before polling stations close, participation has already surpassed all previous records.
Political analyst Gábor Török suggested turnout could reach as high as 80% by the end of voting.
While high turnout does not necessarily favor one party over another, it is considered bad news for smaller parties such as Our Homeland Movement, which need at least 5% of the vote to enter parliament.
The Tisza Party, led by Péter Magyar, described the high turnout as positive for the opposition. Meanwhile, both major political leaders are urging citizens to continue voting until polls close at 19:00.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called on voters via social media:
“There are many people voting. This means only one thing: if we want to protect Hungary’s security, no patriot should stay at home!”
Magyar also appealed to voters:
“Now we must give everything! Vote and encourage everyone to do so. Every vote can be decisive!”
Polling stations remain open for over another hour.
