Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has announced his resignation following his party’s poor performance in the first round of the presidential election. The Social Democrat Party (PSD), which Ciolacu leads, will also be exiting the pro-European Union coalition government. This decision comes after right-wing nationalist candidate George Simion emerged as the frontrunner in the presidential race, significantly undermining the current government’s credibility and mandate.
George Simion, known for his Eurosceptic views and nationalistic rhetoric, secured 40.9% of the vote in the first round and is widely expected to win the runoff on May 18. His main opponent in the second round will be Nicușor Dan, the liberal mayor of Bucharest, who narrowly beat the PSD candidate. Simion’s success reflects a growing dissatisfaction among Romanian voters, particularly in response to last year’s annulled presidential elections, which many saw as emblematic of political instability and elite mismanagement.
Romanian PM Resigns as Simion’s Nationalist Surge Shakes Pro-EU Coalition Ahead of Pivotal RunoffRomania Faces Political Upheaval Amid Simion’s Rise and EU-Altering Presidential Runoff
Simion’s rise has stirred concern across Europe and in Ukraine due to his anti-EU stance and advocacy for a bloc of strong, sovereign nations. His popularity signals a broader trend of right-wing nationalism gaining traction in Eastern Europe. The outcome of the May 18 runoff could have significant implications for Romania’s future alignment with European policies, especially on issues like migration, security, and democratic norms.
With Ciolacu stepping down, the political transition now falls to interim president Ilie Bolojan, who assumed the role in February following the annulled elections scandal. Bolojan is expected to appoint a caretaker prime minister to manage the government until a new administration is formed. The upcoming weeks are likely to be politically turbulent as Romania adjusts to a shifting power dynamic and prepares for a potentially transformative presidential runoff.