- Nicușor Dan wins the Romanian presidential election with 54% of the vote.
- Far-right nationalist George Simion concedes defeat after leading the first round.
- The election is seen as a litmus test for Trump-style nationalism in Europe.
Nicușor Dan, a pro-European Union centrist and the mayor of Bucharest, has clinched Romania’s presidency. His victory was a surprising turnaround, defeating far-right nationalist George Simion.
The election, which saw the highest voter turnout in 25 years, was marred by allegations of Russian interference. Andrei Tarnea, spokesperson for the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, cited disinformation campaigns targeting voters through Telegram and other platforms.
Romania Rejects Nationalism: Nicușor Dan Triumphs in Presidential Polls
Nicușor Dan’s unexpected rise to the presidency has marked a significant shift in Romania’s political landscape. His campaign was centered on anti-corruption and pro-European Union policies. It resonated with urban and younger voters seeking stability amid economic challenges. In contrast, George Simion, a far-right nationalist and ardent Trump supporter, framed his candidacy around ending military aid to Ukraine and reducing EU influence. He appealed primarily to rural and diaspora voters.
Simion’s defeat is a setback for nationalist movements in Eastern Europe. Dan’s pro-EU stance attracted endorsements from key European leaders, including Poland’s Donald Tusk and Moldova’s Maia Sandu. Their messages emphasized the importance of European unity in countering Russian aggression. This was especially important as the war in Ukraine continues to pose security risks for Romania.
The electoral process was not without controversy. Romanian authorities reported a surge in disinformation targeting voters through Telegram. Messages aimed at undermining Dan’s credibility circulated widely. Despite these challenges, voter turnout surged to its highest level in 25 years. This signaled a robust public desire for political stability and a clear rejection of far-right rhetoric.
Simion conceded defeat in a video statement, vowing to continue his nationalist agenda. He decried alleged foreign influence in the election. His loss has prompted analysts to question whether the nationalist wave that has swept parts of Europe in recent years is beginning to recede in Romania.
Dan’s victory represents a decisive moment for Romania. It reaffirms Romania’s pro-EU orientation and deals a blow to rising nationalist sentiments in Eastern Europe.
“Elections are about community. In today’s elections, a community of Romanians who want a profound change in Romania won.” — Nicușor Dan
