Elections in Romania: Far-right Candidate Leads Again Amid Political Turmoil

The candidate may have changed, but the far-right remains at the forefront. Five months after the unexpected annulment of the first round of presidential elections, nationalist sentiment resurfaced during the repeat vote on May 4, 2025. George Simion, representing the far-right and running for president, garnered 42.3% of the votes in the first round of Romanian presidential elections, with 50% of ballots counted, according to results announced by the electoral commission. The pro-European coalition’s candidate, Crin Antonescu, came second with 22.5%. In a video message broadcast outside his party headquarters, Simion thanked his supporters, saying, “We made history today.” Despite this outcome, analysts predict a close contest in the runoff. Who will face Simion in the second round remains uncertain, as the margin between Antonescu and Bucharest mayor Nicuşor Dan is razor-thin. Former Prime Minister Victor Ponta trails further behind. If elected, Simion has promised to bring Clinc Gheorghescu into power through a referendum, early elections, or parliamentary coalition. Following the annulment of November’s election—a rare move for an EU member state—thousands have protested what they call a ‘coup.’ The U.S., under Trump, also weighed in, urging transparency.