Romanian Presidential Elections Round Two: Nationalist George Simion vs. Independent Nicusor Dan

Romania’s presidential race is set for a dramatic runoff after George Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), surged to a commanding lead in the first round, capturing nearly 40% of the vote. His nearest challenger, independent centrist Nicușor Dan, trailed with around 21%, setting the stage for a polarised second round on May 18.

Simion’s Rise and Its Political Implications

Simion’s performance marks a significant shift in Romania’s political landscape. His campaign, rooted in nationalist and eurosceptic rhetoric, has resonated with voters frustrated by inflation, high living costs, and a sluggish economy.

Simion’s alignment with Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement and his opposition to military aid for Ukraine signal a potential pivot away from mainstream European policies. Political analysts warn that a Simion presidency could isolate Romania within the EU and NATO, unsettle investors, and introduce uncertainty into the country’s foreign and economic policies.

Meanwhile, Simion took advantage of the turmoil in Romanian public life after the Romanian Constitutional Court cancelled the first round of the November presidential Elections. The then winner, Calin Georgescu, was an ultranationalist who is now under investigation for irregularities in financing his campaign.

Dan’s Challenge and the Centrist Response

Nicușor Dan, the reform-minded mayor of Bucharest, represents a pro-Western, centrist alternative. While his first-round result was well behind Simion’s, Dan is expected to consolidate support from Romania’s political establishment and urban voters in the runoff.

Both Dan and the outgoing establishment candidate, Crin Antonescu, advocate for continued EU and NATO integration and support for Ukraine, positions that contrast sharply with Simion’s platform.

A Nation at a Crossroads

This election follows the annulment of the previous presidential vote amid allegations of Russian interference, fueling public distrust and anti-establishment sentiment. The high turnout, including nearly a million votes from the diaspora, reflects the stakes and polarisation of this contest. The runoff will test whether Romania continues on a pro-European path or shifts toward nationalist, populist policies with broader implications for the region and the EU.

With Simion’s lead and Dan’s potential to rally centrist and moderate voters, Romania faces a defining choice. The outcome will shape the country’s international alignments, economic prospects, and the tone of its democracy for years to come.