President Trump-aligned candidate George Simion surged to victory in the first round of Romania’s presidential election rerun on Sunday, in a vote widely seen as a test of rising nationalist sentiment across the European Union.
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced his resignation on Monday, after the ruling coalition’s candidate failed to qualify for the runoff in the rerun of the presidential election. Crin Antonescu, the coalition’s nominee, placed third in Sunday’s first round, trailing far behind nationalist frontrunner Simion and pro-Western reformer and Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan.
“Rather than let the future president replace me, I decided to resign myself,” the prime minister told reporters following a meeting at the Social Democratic Party (PSD) headquarters.
With nearly 98% of ballots counted, Simion held a commanding lead at 40%, followed by Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan with 21%. The two are set to face off in a runoff on May 18, pending final results that include the diaspora vote.
“This is not just an electoral victory, it is a victory of Romanian dignity,” Simion declared. “It is the victory of those who have not lost hope, of those who still believe in Romania, a free, respected, sovereign country.”
Simion, 38, has capitalized on widespread discontent with establishment leaders and has openly embraced President Trump’s “Make America Great Again” message. He opposes EU leadership and military aid to Ukraine, and has positioned himself as part of a growing MAGA-aligned movement in Central Europe.
Sunday’s vote followed a canceled election in November, which was scrapped over alleged Russian interference that had boosted “far-right” frontrunner Călin Georgescu, who has since been banned from running. Simion, who polled at just 14% in that contest, appeared to gain momentum from Georgescu’s sidelining.
Simion cast his vote alongside Georgescu and echoed his call to “restore democracy,” while supporters gathered chanting “Călin for president.” Georgescu denounced the election as a “fraud” and urged voters to take back the country.
Simion told Reuters he views MAGA leadership in Romania and Poland as key to maintaining strong ties with the United States. “We represent partners and we represent allies, both military and politically, to the current (US) administration,” he said. Poland’s nationalist opposition is also fielding a MAGA-aligned candidate, Karol Nawrocki, who recently met with President Trump.
Romania’s presidency carries partial executive powers, including command of the armed forces and leadership of the national security council. Simion has suggested he would seek to give Georgescu an undefined leadership role if elected.
The outcome could shake Romania’s leftist-led governing coalition. President Trump’s administration has previously condemned the cancellation of November’s election, with Vice President JD Vance calling it “flimsy evidence” used to suppress political opposition.
