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4d ago

Poland Prepares for Presidential Vote Shaping Domestic and Global Policy

With 13 candidates running, polls predict a June 1 runoff between liberal Rafał Trzaskowski and conservative Karol Nawrocki, determining the future of Poland's pro-European reforms.

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People carry placards in support of conservative presidential candidate Karol Nawrocki in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
Supporters join a campaign rally in support of presidential candidate Szymon Hołownia in Warsaw, Poland ,Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
Civic Coalition presidential candidate, Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski gives a high five to his supporter during an election meeting in Brzeg, Poland, May 14, 2025. REUTERS/Kacper Pempel/File Photo

Overview

  • Poland's first-round presidential election on May 18 features 13 candidates, with no clear majority expected, leading to a likely runoff on June 1.
  • Rafał Trzaskowski, the liberal mayor of Warsaw, leads in polls with 33%, followed by conservative historian Karol Nawrocki at 26%.
  • The election's outcome will decide whether Prime Minister Donald Tusk's pro-European coalition can advance its reform agenda, currently blocked by presidential vetoes.
  • Key issues include Poland's role in NATO, its relationship with the EU, migration policy, and domestic debates on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Far-right candidate Slawomir Mentzen, polling at 11%, could play a significant role in shaping the second-round dynamics.