Poland Presidential Election Nears Runoff Between Trzaskowski, Nawrocki

Poland's presidential election has become a tight contest between Rafal Trzaskowski, a centrist ally of Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and Karol Nawrocki, the nationalist candidate backed by the Law and Justice party. Recent polls and exit polls indicate that Trzaskowski leads narrowly with around 30-31% support, while Nawrocki trails closely with approximately 25-30%, setting up a runoff election on June 1. The election is regarded as a critical moment for the pro-European coalition government, which has struggled to advance reforms and reverse illiberal policies of the previous populist-nationalist administration. Voter frustration with the slow progress of reforms has narrowed Trzaskowski's lead, raising questions about whether voters will reaffirm their 2023 choice or seek alternatives. The political standoff is further complicated by outgoing President Andrzej Duda, a close ally of the previous government who has vetoed several key government initiatives. The outcome will influence Poland's future governance and its relationship with the European Union.