Romania is set to hold a presidential election rerun on May 18, with 11 candidates vying for the top spot. The main contenders are George Simion, Crin Antonescu, Nicusor Dan, Victor Ponta, and Elena Lasconi.
George Simion, leader of the radical right Alliance for Uniting Romanians, leads in opinion polls, but his campaign has raised concerns due to reports of paid online content without disclosed funding. The 38-year-old Simion supports restoring Romania’s 1940 borders and opposes military aid to Ukraine, while also criticizing the European Union’s leadership.
Crin Antonescu, a former liberal party leader, is backed by the leftist Social Democrats and pro-Western coalition government parties. He supports increasing defence spending and supporting Ukraine but has faced concerns over his past attempts to overthrow then-centrist President Traian Basescu.
Nicusor Dan, a centrist independent candidate, campaigns on an anti-corruption ticket, aiming to eliminate red tape in public administration. His relationship with businessman Mihai Paun has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Victor Ponta, a former leftist prime minister, has turned ultranationalist and supports “radical change” in the United States. He backs increasing defence spending but does not support civil unions for same-sex couples.
Elena Lasconi, the mayor of Campulung, lost support after her presidential election bid was cancelled due to accusations of Russian meddling. She believes in increasing defence spending and supporting Ukraine, while also opposing legalizing marriage.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/who-are-main-contenders-romanias-presidential-election-re-run-2025-04-30