Centrist Pro-EU Candidate Nicușor Dan Wins Romanian Presidential Election in Stunning Upset Over Far-Right Rival

Bucharest Mayor and independent presidential candidate Nicusor Dan and his wife Mirabela Gradinaru are seen after voting at a polling station in Fagaras, central Romania on May 18, 2025

In a dramatic turn of events, Romania's pro-European Union centrist candidate Nicușor Dan secured a decisive victory in the country’s presidential election on Sunday, defeating far-right opponent George Simion in a race that was closely watched across Europe.

With all ballots counted, Dan captured nearly 54% of the vote, prevailing over Simion, who had led in the first round of voting on May 4. Dan’s surge came after a commanding performance in a nationally televised debate that shifted public opinion in his favor.

Presidential candidate Nicusor Dan speaks after polls closed for the second round of the country's presidential election redo in Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, May 18, 2025.

Celebrating with supporters, Dan described the result as a reflection of Romania’s democratic resolve. “Elections are about community. In today’s elections, a community of Romanians who want a profound change in Romania won,” said the 55-year-old Bucharest mayor. He called for unity and perseverance, warning that “a difficult period lies ahead” as the country works to stabilize its economy and build a transparent and accountable society.

Dan, a staunch advocate of Romania’s NATO alliance, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. His campaign platform emphasized anti-corruption measures, European integration, and economic reform.

Nicolae Ceausescu was banned from standing again after winning the first round of elections, a decision that only helped Simion

Simion, a vocal supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, ran on a hard-right, nationalist agenda. He opposes EU policies and military aid to Ukraine, arguing instead for a more insular, sovereigntist approach. Despite losing, he maintained strong backing from Romania’s extensive diaspora, particularly in countries like Austria, Italy, France, Poland, the UK, and Belgium, where he had spent much of his campaign.

Simion conceded defeat in a video message, saying, “We lost this battle, but we didn’t and will never lose our war,” and vowed to continue working with what he called “sovereigntist patriots and conservatives around the world.”

The election followed a controversial annulment of the initial results five months ago, which were voided due to confirmed Russian interference. The prior front-runner, far-right candidate Calin Georgescu, was subsequently barred from running after being indicted on multiple charges, including founding a fascist group.

Presidential candidate George Simion takes part in a talk organized by the Romanian Chamber of Commerce on May 13, 2025 in Bucharest, Romania

More than 10 million Romanians voted in what was widely seen as a referendum on the country’s direction—between a European future and a turn toward nationalist populism. The race was also viewed as a broader litmus test for the appeal of Trump-style politics in Eastern Europe.

European leaders swiftly congratulated Dan on his win. French President Emmanuel Macron, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen all offered praise and support.

Von der Leyen highlighted the significance of the election in a post, saying, “The Romanian people have turned out massively to the polls. They have chosen the promise of an open, prosperous Romania in a strong Europe. Together let’s deliver on that promise.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called Dan’s victory “historic,” commending Romania’s support as a reliable regional partner.

Presidential candidate Nicusor Dan gestures as he speaks during a debate in which his opponent didn't participate, organized by national television TVR in Bucharest, Romania, on May 15, 2025

Romania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported evidence of Russian disinformation campaigns during the election, especially via Telegram and other social media platforms. Spokesperson Andrei Tarnea said authorities had successfully debunked much of the false information, but labeled the interference efforts “expected.”

In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova dismissed the allegations, calling the election process itself messy and beyond foreign influence. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov further criticized the removal of Georgescu, describing the election as “strange, to say the least.”

As Romania prepares for a new administration under Nicușor Dan, the country stands at a crossroads, reinforcing its Western alliances and democratic institutions amid growing geopolitical tension and challenges to liberal democratic norms across Europe.