Romania Prepares for Presidential Election as Nationalist and Progressive Candidates Gain Momentum

The election could lead to a runoff between nationalist George Simion, progressive Elena Lasconi, or frontrunner Marcel Ciolacu from the Social Democratic Party

Romania's first round of presidential elections will take place on Sunday, with 13 candidates vying for the position and a likely runoff set for December 8.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), leads the polls with approximately 24% support, emphasizing stability and continued alignment with the EU and NATO.
Nationalist candidate George Simion of the far-right AUR party is polling at around 15% and has drawn controversy for his anti-EU stance and alleged ties to Russian interests, which he denies.
Progressive candidate Elena Lasconi of the Save Romania Union (USR) is also polling at 15%, campaigning on anti-corruption, increased defense spending, and Romania's full accession to the Schengen Zone.
The parliamentary elections on December 1 will determine the composition of Romania's next government, with populist and nationalist parties expected to achieve record results.