Particle.news
Download on the App Store
32 ARTICLES
·
21h ago

Exit Polls Suggest Pro-EU Candidate Nicușor Dan Leads in Romanian Presidential Runoff

Simion rejects results as record turnout and allegations of Russian disinformation shape Romania's pivotal election.

People exit voting cabins with the colours of the Romanian flag as curtains, before casting their vote, in the second round of the country's presidential election redo in Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)
Presidential candidate Nicusor Dan exits a voting cabin before casting his vote in the second round of the country's presidential election redo in Fagaras, Romania, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Eduard Vinatoru)
Image
Image

Overview

  • Exit polls indicate Nicușor Dan, the pro-EU centrist and Bucharest mayor, leading with 54.9% over hard-right nationalist George Simion at 45.1%.
  • Simion has publicly rejected the exit poll results, alleging fraud and claiming a lead of 400,000 votes, while authorities prepare for potential disputes.
  • Turnout reached a record 64%, with significant participation from Romania's diaspora, surpassing first-round levels.
  • Romanian authorities have identified a viral disinformation campaign with characteristics of Russian interference targeting the election process.
  • The election's outcome will determine Romania's geopolitical direction, including its alignment with the EU, NATO, and support for Ukraine.