Poland Holds Presidential Runoff in EU-Watched Contest

Poland is set to hold a pivotal presidential runoff election between Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, a pro-European centrist, and historian Karol Nawrocki, backed by the right-wing Law and Justice party. The race is extremely close, with polls showing a near tie, and the outcome is expected to influence Poland's future relationship with the European Union and its domestic reform path. Trzaskowski advocates for liberal reforms including easing abortion laws, strengthening ties with the EU, and restoring judicial independence, while Nawrocki emphasizes traditional values, national sovereignty, and has expressed skepticism about Ukraine's NATO membership. The election has drawn attention from the EU and the US, with some US Republican lawmakers alleging bias from the European Commission in favor of Trzaskowski. The vote is also notable for the influence of Polish citizens abroad, whose participation could be decisive. The contest reflects broader tensions within Poland regarding its political direction and its role in European affairs.