Trump Ally Simion Wins First Round in Romania’s Presidential Vote
George Simion, leader of the nationalist Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, secured first place in Romania’s presidential election rerun on Sunday with over 40% of the vote, setting up a runoff against centrist and pro-European Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan, who received just under 21%. The decisive second round is scheduled for May 18.
The result marks a dramatic political shift in the European Union and NATO member state, where Simion’s rise has been fueled by anti-establishment sentiment, criticism of the EU, and skepticism toward support for Ukraine. His support was particularly strong among the Romanian diaspora, especially in Italy, Spain, and Germany.
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Simion, 38, described the result as “a victory of Romanian dignity” and called for a return to “sovereignty” and “constitutional order.” Though he denounces Russia and supports NATO bases in Romania, he opposes further military aid to Ukraine and has been banned from entering both Moldova and Ukraine.
His opponent, Dan, is running on an “Honest Romania” platform that calls for clean governance and continued Western integration. The governing coalition’s candidate, Crin Antonescu, placed third and conceded the race.
Simion’s ideological ally, Călin Georgescu—whose annulled 2024 election win was invalidated over suspected Russian interference—has endorsed him, and Simion has suggested Georgescu could serve in a future government.
The runoff pits two sharply opposing visions for Romania’s future: one aligned with European unity and NATO, the other veering toward nationalist retrenchment. Romania plays a vital role in supporting Ukraine through grain exports and military training, and the election outcome is being watched closely in Brussels, Washington, and Kyiv.
