Romania Faces Political Upheaval as Far-Right Candidate Advances in Presidential Race

Allegations of election interference and a parliamentary vote heighten tensions following Calin Georgescu's unexpected first-round victory.

Far-right presidential candidate Calin Georgescu, known for his pro-Russia stance and nationalist rhetoric, unexpectedly won the first round of Romania's presidential election, triggering protests and political uncertainty.
Romania's Constitutional Court is reviewing allegations of electoral violations, including possible vote transfers and foreign interference, and will decide on Monday whether to annul the first-round results.
Georgescu's rapid rise, fueled by TikTok engagement and support from Romania's diaspora, has raised concerns about the country's alignment with NATO and the EU, especially during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The parliamentary election taking place today is expected to reshape the political landscape, with far-right parties projected to gain significant ground alongside traditional parties like the PSD and PNL.
Reformist candidate Elena Lasconi, who will face Georgescu in the December 8 runoff, has called for transparency and warned against undermining democracy as recounts and court rulings unfold.