Romanians began voting on Sunday 24 November for the first round of the presidential elections in a tense social climate, which could favor the far-right candidate and mark a nationalist turning point in the Eastern European country.
Among the thirteen candidates, the leader of the AUR party (Alliance for the Unity of Romanians), George Simion, 38 years old, seems able to qualify for the second round, according to polls, which give him 15 to 19%, against some 25% for the favorite, the current Social Democratic Prime Minister (PSD) Marcel Ciolacu, 56 years old.
With his passionate speech with mystical and conspiratorial tones, Simion capitalized, according to experts, on the anger of Romanians impoverished by record inflation (10% last year, 5.5% expected in 2024).
His entry into the ballot on December 8 would be love at first sight in this state – a member of the European Union and NATO – of 19 million inhabitants which has so far resisted nationalist positions, distinguishing itself from Hungary or Slovakia.
The offices opened at 7am in Bucharest (6am in Paris) and closed at 9pm. Exit polls are expected immediately afterwards.
George Simion does not hide his admiration for Donald Trump
After ten years in power of Klaus Iohannis, a fervent supporter of Kiev and a tireless supporter of European values, these elections carry heavy stakes, even if the office of president is essentially ceremonial.
Romania, which shares a 650 kilometer border with Ukraine and borders the Black Sea, plays a strategic role “vital”recalls in a study by the think tank New Strategy Center. Both for NATO, of which it hosts more than five thousand soldiers, and for the transit of Ukrainian cereals.
George Simion, who sometimes wears a red cap with the Trump logo, does not hide his admiration for the billionaire and hopes to take advantage of this favorable wind for the ultra-conservative currents. Against any military aid to Kiev, which banned him for his activities “anti-Ukrainian”against “the corrupt bubble” of Brussels, against the rights of LGBTQIA+ people: the official satisfies all the requirements of a nationalist policy, supporting a Romania “more patriotic”.
Campaign marked by controversy and attacks
“We no longer want to be treated like second class citizens”insists, regretting that Romania was led only by “cowards and lackeys” bend to external dictates. He increased his travels in Europe, to win over the numerous members of the Romanian diaspora.
If he scores well, his AUR party should benefit“a contagion effect” in the legislative elections on December 1, between the two rounds of the presidential elections, Parvulescu predicts.
The campaign has been marked by a series of controversies and personal attacks, with the far-right leader accused of meeting Russian spies, which he has denied, while the prime minister is in the spotlight for controversial private jet flights.
Despite a low popularity rating, Marcel Ciolacu, eager to convey the image of a humble and self-taught man, hopes to convince with his message of “stability”. His party, heir to the former Communist Party, has structured the country’s political life for more than three decades through multiple corruption scandals and currently governs in coalition with the liberals of the National Liberal Party.
In third place in the polls is Elena Lasconi, 52 years old, a former journalist and mayor of a small town at the head of a center-right party, who could reserve a surprise. “Perhaps our best hope would be to wake up with her the day after the first round, she seems like the most honest candidate”confides Oana Diaconu, a 36-year-old computer scientist.
author__detail”>
#Romania #elects #president #turning #point
Title: Analyzing the Romanian Presidential Elections: A Conversation with Political Analyst Dr. Elena Radu
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Elena Radu! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the ongoing presidential elections in Romania, which have already set the stage for a potentially dramatic political shift in the country.
Dr. Radu: Thank you for having me! It’s a crucial time for Romania, and I’m excited to delve into the dynamics at play.
Editor: The first round of voting took place on November 24, and there are notable tensions within the social climate. How do you see these tensions influencing the election results?
Dr. Radu: Absolutely, the current social climate in Romania is highly charged, primarily driven by economic factors. The record inflation, which reached 10% last year, has created a deep-seated anger among the populace. Many feel disenfranchised, and this sentiment benefits candidates like George Simion of the AUR party, who are capitalizing on public discontent with the status quo.
Editor: Simion seems to be gaining traction with poll numbers suggesting he could qualify for the second round. What do you think differentiates his approach from that of the incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu?
Dr. Radu: Simion’s appeal lies in his passionate rhetoric that resonates with conservative and nationalist sentiments. While Ciolacu, representing the Social Democrats, emphasizes stability and continuity, Simion embodies a more radical departure, promoting a nationalist agenda. His admiration for figures like Donald Trump and his controversial views on various social issues position him as a polarizing figure, appealing to voters who desire change.
Editor: Speaking of polarization, how significant is Simion’s rhetoric about international relations, especially regarding Ukraine and NATO?
Dr. Radu: It’s crucial. Romania is strategically located and shares a long border with Ukraine, giving it a pivotal role in regional security. Simion’s stance against military aid to Ukraine and his embracing of nationalist policies could alter Romania’s foreign policy trajectory, especially as it has traditionally aligned with pro-European and pro-NATO positions. This shift could have implications not just locally but also within the EU and NATO alliances.
Editor: There’s talk about a possible “contagion effect” from AUR’s performance in these elections. Can you elaborate on what that means for the forthcoming legislative elections?
Dr. Radu: Certainly. If Simion performs well in the presidential elections, it could energize his party in the legislative elections set for December 1. This effect occurs when a candidate’s strong performance creates momentum, convincing voters that they can influence change. AUR could potentially gain significant parliamentary representation, which would fundamentally shift the political landscape in Romania.
Editor: The campaign has been riddled with controversies and personal attacks. How do you see these controversies shaping public perception of the candidates?
Dr. Radu: Controversies, like accusations against Simion regarding meetings with alleged Russian spies and criticisms of Ciolacu’s jet travel, can either damage credibility or, paradoxically, bolster support. For Simion, being labeled as a fringe figure could rally his base, who may see these attacks as evidence of a corrupt establishment trying to suppress a new voice. Public perception will largely depend on how effectively each candidate can navigate and respond to these challenges.
Editor: As we look forward to the results, what do you consider the key factors that will determine the outcome of these elections?
Dr. Radu: Voter turnout will be paramount; disenchanted voters could either sit out or mobilize in support of a candidate who reflects their frustrations. Additionally, how candidates communicate their visions to the electorate—particularly on issues like inflation, national pride, and Romania’s role in Europe—will significantly impact their success. The upcoming exit polls will also provide important insights into voter sentiment as the results unfold.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Radu, for this insightful analysis. It’s a critical time for Romania, and as events develop, we’ll surely keep an eye on the shifting political landscape.
Dr. Radu: Thank you for discussing these important issues. I look forward to seeing how this election unfolds and its broader implications for Romania and Europe.