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Exit polls from the first round of Romania’s presidential election show far-right AUR party candidate George Simion in the lead with 30% to 33% of the vote, Digi24 reports.
A tight race for second place is underway between Crin Antonescu (the PSD–PNL–UDMR coalition candidate) and independent Nicușor Dan, each polling around 21% to 23%. One of them is expected to face Simion in the runoff.
Voter turnout stood at 53%. The second round is scheduled for May 18.
Simion, known for his pro-Russian rhetoric and criticism of the EU, has hinted that if elected, he may appoint controversial nationalist Călin Georgescu — barred from running — to a senior position.
These elections were repeated after the November 2024 vote was annulled over allegations of foreign interference, reportedly favoring Georgescu.
Official results are yet to be announced.
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