During the parliamentary elections, everyone can only cast their vote in the electoral district (county) where they have a verifiable address. Parties that obtain at least five percent of the votes nationally, or that achieve over 20 percent support in at least four counties, participate in the distribution of mandates. The fractional votes are not lost either, but are added to the national basket, and then - locally or in other counties – they are used as additional mandates.
The result of the presidential election caught many by surprise: the winner of the first round was a little-known politician, <a href="https://time.news/the-examination-points-to-the-second-round-between-prime-minister-ciolacu-and-a-pro-russian-candidate-in-the-romanian-presidential-elections-international/" title="The examination points to the second round between Prime Minister Ciolacu and a pro-Russian candidate in the Romanian presidential elections | International”>Calin Georgescu – who was proposed as prime minister years ago by the opposition, system-critical and anti-Hungarian Association for the Unification of Romanians – the runner-up was also a surprise: Elena Lasconi, the presidential candidate of the opposition, progressive save Romania Association, reported about her Hungarian Nation.
Before last week’s first round of the presidential election, opinion polls predicted a victory for the Social Democratic Party (PSD) of around 30 percent, after the party’s candidate for the head of state, prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, did not make it to the second round, and – the Romanians considered extremist by the other parties Former prime Minister candidate of the Alliance for Unification (AUR) with the anti-Semitic and anti-Hungarian Vasgárda openly sympathizing – independent candidate Calin Georgescu received the most votes, according to the last survey, PSD’s support dropped dramatically, and now AUR has a chance to win the parliamentary elections.
Photo: Mihai Barbu / Source: AFP
How can voters effectively navigate the changing political landscape in Romania?
Q&A Interview: Analyzing Romania’s Surprising Presidential Elections
Editor (Time.news): Welcome, Dr. Alexandru Ionescu, a political analyst specialized in Eastern European politics. We appreciate your insights today—especially considering the recent surprising outcomes of the Romanian presidential elections.Can you provide an overview of how voting works during these elections?
dr. Alexandru ionescu: Thank you for having me. In Romania, during parliamentary elections, voters can only cast their ballots in their designated electoral district, which is determined by a verifiable home address. It’s also crucial for political parties; only those that secure at least five percent of national votes or over 20 percent in at least four counties are eligible to distribute mandates. this system ensures that fractional votes are not wasted, as they are aggregated into a national pool for future mandate allocation.
Editor: That’s an interesting system. The recent first-round results surprised many—especially with Calin Georgescu coming out on top. what factors contributed to his unexpected victory?
Dr. Alexandru Ionescu: Indeed, Georgescu’s rise is engaging. His background as a lesser-known politician with roots in the system-critical opposition played a critical role. His candidacy resonated with voters dissatisfied with established parties.Additionally, the Social Democratic Party (PSD) forecasted around 30 percent but failed to advance beyond the first round, indicating a notable shift in voter sentiment. Many Romanians are increasingly looking for choice voices, especially in the wake of growing dissatisfaction with conventional parties.
Editor: The PSD’s dramatic drop in support is noteworthy. How might this shift benefit newer political movements, like AUR, going into the parliamentary elections?
Dr. Alexandru Ionescu: AUR has positioned itself as a strong alternative, especially among voters who feel marginalized by conventional politics. Given the PSD’s struggles,AUR has the potential to leverage this moment to gain popular support. However, their controversial views, including anti-Hungarian and anti-Semitic sentiments, may alienate a segment of the electorate. Their ability to tap into disillusionment while maintaining credibility will be key to their success.
Editor: With these dynamics, what practical advice would you offer to voters seeking to navigate this changing political landscape?
Dr. Alexandru Ionescu: Voters should actively educate themselves about candidates and their platforms. It’s essential to scrutinize party ideologies and track records rather than get swayed by populist rhetoric. Engaging in community discussions and analyzing autonomous media can definitely help voters make informed decisions.It’s also crucial to understand the ramifications of encouraging parties that promote divisive agendas—ensuring that the vote reflects values like unity and progress rather than division.
Editor: As we approach the upcoming parliamentary elections, what are your predictions for the political landscape in Romania?
Dr. Alexandru Ionescu: I foresee a fragmented political landscape,with potential for emerging parties to gain traction. The situation is fluid, and as unpopular decisions from traditional parties become apparent, voter loyalty will continue to shift. It’ll be crucial for the major parties to address the underlying issues that led to disenchantment among the electorate. Voter turnout and engagement will also play essential roles in shaping Romania’s political future.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ionescu, for your valuable insights on the unfolding political scenario in Romania. Your analysis will certainly help our readers understand the implications of these electoral movements.
dr. Alexandru Ionescu: It’s been a pleasure. Thank you for shedding light on such a critical topic. Voter engagement is more critically importent than ever in shaping a democratic future for Romania.