Nationalist Candidate Surprises in Tight Romanian Presidential Race

In a surprising turn of events, far-right candidate Calin Georgescu has taken the lead in Romania's presidential election, with 22% of the vote, ahead of pro-Europe Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who has 20%. Georgescu, who campaigned primarily on TikTok and has no party affiliation, is set to face Ciolacu in a run-off on December 8. This election has highlighted a divide in Romania, with Georgescu advocating for national sovereignty and reduced ties with the EU and NATO, while Ciolacu represents a continuation of Romania's pro-western policies.