Poland Votes in Tight Presidential Runoff with High EU Stakes

Poland's presidential runoff election features a contest between Rafal Trzaskowski, the liberal mayor of Warsaw representing the centrist Civic Platform, and Karol Nawrocki, a nationalist backed by the Law and Justice party. Trzaskowski supports closer European integration and is favored by Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government, while Nawrocki opposes Ukrainian NATO membership and has expressed skepticism about European cooperation, aligning with more nationalist and conservative views. The election outcome is seen as pivotal for Poland’s domestic and foreign policy direction, with implications for its relationship with the European Union and stance on the Ukraine conflict. The race has drawn high voter engagement, including a record turnout among Polish voters abroad, particularly in the United States. U.S. political figures like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have publicly supported Nawrocki, highlighting international interest in the election. Analysts suggest a Trzaskowski victory would strengthen the pro-European agenda of Tusk’s coalition, whereas Nawrocki’s win could deepen divides within Poland and with its European neighbors.