Viktor Orbán’s endorsement of ultranationalist candidate George Simion in Romania’s presidential election has sparked backlash among the Hungarian diaspora, jeopardizing Orbán’s own electoral prospects. Simion, who has a history of violence against ethnic Hungarians, garnered 41% in the first election round, while Hungarian politicians, including the UDMR party, have rallied behind pro-EU candidate Nicuşor Dan, criticizing Orbán’s support for Simion. The controversy underscores the complexities of ethnic politics in Central and Eastern Europe, revealing tensions between Orbán’s nationalist agenda and the interests of ethnic Hungarians in Romania.
