Romania set for right-wing runoff

Far-right, pro-Russia candidate Călin Georgescu unexpectedly won the first round of Romania’s presidential election and will face a runoff vote against reformist Elena Lasconi on December 8


Călin Georgescu 
Independent

Ex-member of far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians relied on TikTok campaign to reach voters

Pledges to end what he calls Romania’s subservience to EU and NATO, especially on support for Ukraine


Elena Lasconi
Save Romania Union

Former journalist turned politician joined centre-right USR in 2018, becoming party leader in Jun 2024

Anti-corruption reformist has expressed support toward increased defence spending and continued aid to Ukraine


ROMANIA PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, FIRST ROUND RESULT 

Călin Georgescu	22.94%
Independent

Elena Lasconi	19.18%
Save Romania Union (USR)

Marcel Ciolacu	19.15%
(Prime Minister)
Social Democratic Party

George Simion	13.86%
Alliance for the Union of Romanians

Turnout: 52%


Romania’s president
Serves five-year term and has significant decision- making powers in areas such as national security, foreign policy and judicial appointments

Support for Kyiv
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Romania has enabled export of grain through port of Constanta and provided military aid


Sources: Associated Press, BBC, France 24, ROAEP 
Pictures: Getty Images 
© GRAPHIC NEWS