Nationalist Karol Nawrocki Claims Victory in Polish Presidential Election, Says Electoral Commission
Karol Nawrocki, the opposition nationalist candidate, has emerged victorious in the second round of Poland’s presidential election, securing 50.89% of the votes, according to the electoral commission. This outcome presents a setback for the pro-European government’s reform initiatives.
Nawrocki’s competitor, Rafal Trzaskowski, the liberal mayor of Warsaw and an ally of the ruling government led by Donald Tusk, garnered 49.11% of the votes.
Exit polls from yesterday had indicated a narrow victory for Mr. Trzaskowski.
At 42, Mr. Nawrocki is a eurosceptic historian and amateur boxer who previously managed a national remembrance institute, campaigning on a platform that prioritizes Polish citizens in economic and social policies, including those pertaining to refugees from neighboring Ukraine.
Rafal Trzaskowski, the mayor of Warsaw, faced defeat in the second round of voting.
Although the Polish parliament wields significant authority, the president has the power to veto legislation. This election was closely observed not only in Ukraine and Russia but also by the United States and throughout the European Union.
Backed by the Law and Justice party (PiS), Mr. Nawrocki is expected to uphold the policies of his predecessor, President Andrzej Duda, who is also aligned with the largest opposition party, particularly in opposing any efforts by the government to liberalize abortion laws or reform the judiciary.
On social media platform X, President Duda, a conservative, expressed gratitude to Poles for participating in large numbers during the elections.
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The turnout for the election was recorded at 71.31%, a historic high for the second round of a presidential election, according to the electoral commission.
“Thank you! For participating in the presidential elections, for the turnout, for fulfilling your civic duty, and for taking responsibility for Poland. Congratulations to the winner! Stay strong, Poland!” wrote Mr. Duda.
Meanwhile, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen extended her congratulations to Mr. Nawrocki, expressing confidence that the EU could maintain its “very good cooperation” with Poland.
“We are all stronger together in our community of peace, democracy, and values. Let us work to ensure the security and prosperity of our common home,” Ms. von der Leyen stated in a post on X.
