Presidential candidate Karol Nawrocki, a conservative historian backed by the right-wing Law and Justice party addresses supporters at his headquarters after the presidential election runoff in Warsaw, Poland on Sunday.
Czarek Sokolowski/AP
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Czarek Sokolowski/AP
WARSAW, Poland — Conservative Karol Nawrocki emerged victorious in Poland’s recent presidential runoff election, securing 50.89% of the votes in a closely contested race against liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who received 49.11%.
The tight race exposed deep divisions in the country, especially along the eastern flank of NATO and the European Union, keeping the nation on edge since the first round two weeks earlier.
An early exit poll initially favored Trzaskowski, but updated polling later shifted the outcome in Nawrocki’s favor, indicating a more nationalist direction for Poland under its new leader, who had the support of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Presidential Role in Poland
While most day-to-day power in Poland lies with the prime minister chosen by parliament, the president holds significant influence over foreign policy and the ability to veto legislation. Nawrocki will succeed Andrzej Duda, a conservative whose final term ends on Aug. 6.
Challenges for Prime Minister Tusk
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has faced obstacles in fulfilling electoral promises due to Duda’s veto power, particularly in reversing laws that politicized the court system, as deemed undemocratic by the EU.
With Duda’s veto power hindering Tusk’s agenda, it appears that certain promises made to voters and the EU may remain unfulfilled.
The New Leader: Karol Nawrocki
Nawrocki, a 42-year-old historian, represents a fresh start for the Law and Justice party, aiming to distance itself from past scandals. As the head of the Institute of National Remembrance, he has advocated for nationalist historical narratives and faced opposition from Russia for his actions.
Nawrocki’s traditional values and stance against secular trends have garnered support among those seeking to uphold conservative values and traditions.
Influence of the Trump Administration
President Trump’s endorsement of Nawrocki played a significant role in the election, with prominent allies praising the new leader and suggesting deeper military ties between Poland and the U.S.
Nawrocki’s supporters hope for improved relations with the Trump administration and a return to what they perceive as “normality.”
