Romania’s Presidential Elections 2023: Key Contenders and Crucial Issues

Romania’s Presidential Elections 2023: Key Contenders and Crucial Issues

November 19, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor World

Romania will hold its presidential elections on November 24. The elections are significant, as they are considered crucial by the public. Candidates need to secure over 50% of the votes to win outright. If no candidate achieves this, a run-off will occur on December 8 between the two candidates with the most votes.

Five main candidates are competing:

  1. Marcel Ciolacu (PSD-S&D): The current Prime Minister and leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD). Ciolacu promotes economic stability and social welfare but faces criticism over his party’s past issues with corruption.

  2. George Simion (AUR-ECR): Leader of the nationalist AUR party. Simion appeals to voters who want radical change. He opposes further aid to Ukraine, which resonates with those blaming the war for high prices. He is seen as a strong contender for second place.

  3. Elena Lasconi (USR-RE): A reformist and leader of the Save Romania Union (USR). Lasconi is known for her anti-corruption stance and targets urban and younger voters. She aims to lower taxes and streamline government to boost competitiveness.

  4. Mircea Geoană (Independent): Former NATO Deputy Secretary General. Geoană focuses on international experience but has struggled domestically due to past ties with PSD. His support has waned recently.

  5. Nicolae Ciucă (PNL-EPP): Leader of the National Liberal Party (PNL) and former Prime Minister. Ciucă emphasizes stability and security but has faced challenges in proving his effectiveness.

The race for the second spot is close among Simion, Lasconi, Geoană, and Ciucă. Undecided voters will play a crucial role in determining who advances alongside Ciolacu.

The result of this presidential race will also influence the parliamentary elections scheduled for one week later. If Lasconi advances and Ciucă does not, USR could become the second-largest party in parliament by attracting PNL voters.

Polls indicate that Simion, Lasconi, and Ciucă are in a tight race, with only minor differences. This close competition means that even slight shifts in voter support can change the outcome. A tense final campaign week is expected leading to the election.

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