Pro-EU Nicusor Dan Wins Romanian Presidential Runoff With 54%

Nicușor Dan, the independent pro-EU mayor of Bucharest, won Romania's presidential runoff election with about 54% of the vote, defeating far-right candidate George Simion, who conceded despite initial claims of victory and allegations of electoral fraud. The election saw a high turnout of nearly 65%, including strong participation from university centers, the Hungarian minority regions, and the diaspora, which had previously favored Simion. The election followed the annulment of the December 2024 vote due to alleged Russian interference benefiting an extremist candidate, who was later banned and supported Simion. Dan's victory is seen as a triumph for pro-Western and reformist forces in Romania, emphasizing desires for institutional reform, less corruption, and societal dialogue. Despite the clear margin, the political divide within Romania remains significant, with Simion vowing to continue his political fight. The election was marked by tense disputes, extensive voter mobilization, and concerns over foreign interference and electoral integrity.