Overview

• George Simion, leader of the far-right AUR party, emerged as the frontrunner in Romania's repeat presidential election with approximately 40% of the vote.
• Nicusor Dan, the independent mayor of Bucharest, narrowly secured second place with 20.9%, edging out government-backed Crin Antonescu at 20.3%.
• The runoff election on May 18 will determine the next president, with stark contrasts between Simion's nationalist agenda and Dan's pro-European stance.
• Simion, a self-proclaimed ally of ex-candidate Calin Georgescu, has pledged to push for Georgescu's political rehabilitation, sparking concerns over democratic integrity.
• The election, annulled last year over irregularities and alleged Russian interference, is seen as a critical test for Romania's democratic future and its EU/NATO alignment.