Poland Sets Presidential Election for May 18

Poland's presidential election is scheduled for May 18, 2025, with a potential runoff on June 1 if no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, as announced by parliamentary speaker Szymon Hołownia. Incumbent President Andrzej Duda, who is concluding his second term and cannot seek re-election, has often clashed with the current government led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The election will feature candidates including Rafal Trzaskowski from the ruling Civic Coalition and Karol Nawrocki from the opposition Law and Justice party. Hołownia, who is also running, aims to bolster the pro-European Union agenda amidst ongoing tensions with right-wing factions. The outcome will be pivotal in determining the future of EU relations and domestic policies in Poland, especially as the new president will take office following Poland's EU presidency ending in June. Duda has been criticized for his alignment with the previous government, complicating the current administration's legislative efforts.