Nicușor Dan, the independent centrist and pro-European Union mayor of Bucharest, has been elected President of Romania, securing 53.6% of the vote in the runoff election held on May 18. He defeated George Simion, the far-right nationalist leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), who garnered 46.4% .
This election followed a previously annulled vote in 2024 due to allegations of Russian interference favoring disqualified candidate Călin Georgescu. Simion, who replaced Georgescu as AUR’s candidate, had led the first round with 40.96% of the vote, while Dan secured 20.99% .
Dan’s victory is seen as a reaffirmation of Romania’s commitment to European integration and democratic values. He campaigned on anti-corruption, support for Ukraine, and strengthening ties with NATO and the EU. In his victory speech, Dan emphasized unity and the importance of Romania’s Western orientation.
The election witnessed a high voter turnout of 64.72%, the highest in 25 years, reflecting the public’s engagement in a contest viewed as pivotal for Romania’s future direction.
International leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, congratulated Dan on his victory, highlighting the significance of Romania’s choice in the broader European context.
As president, Dan faces the challenge of forming a government and addressing Romania’s significant budget deficit, amid a deeply divided political landscape.
