Romanians Vote in High-Stakes Presidential Election Rerun

Romanians are voting in a high-stakes presidential election rerun after the previous vote was annulled due to alleged Russian interference and social media manipulation, with far-right, nationalist candidate George Simion now favored to advance. The annulled 2024 election, originally won by the pro-Russian Calin Georgescu, was voided by Romania’s top court, and Georgescu was subsequently barred from the rerun amid investigations into campaign violations. Simion, leader of the AUR party and self-described 'natural ally' of Donald Trump, has led in pre-election polls and opposes military aid to Ukraine and EU leadership, raising concerns Romania could shift away from its pro-Western stance. The election outcome is being closely monitored internationally, as a far-right victory could impact Romania’s position within the EU and NATO, especially given its strategic location next to Ukraine. The rerun features eleven candidates, with Simion expected to face a runoff against either Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan or the governing coalition’s Crin Antonescu. The vote reflects rising anti-establishment sentiment amid economic difficulties, and public anger over the annulled results and disqualification of the original winner.