Summary
A pro-European Union centrist, Nicusor Dan, won Romania’s presidential election with 53.6% of the vote, defeating hard-right candidate George Simion, who had previously led in polls. Dan’s victory signifies a geopolitical choice for Romania, amid societal divisions fueled by corruption and distrust in the political establishment. With a high voter turnout and strong support from the diaspora, Dan’s election comes at a critical time as Romania plays a vital role in NATO and Western security following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.