In a closely contested election, historian Karol Nawrocki has been elected as Poland’s new president, securing 50.9% of the vote, according to the state electoral commission. His opponent, Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, garnered 49.1%. The results marked a dramatic turnaround from initial exit polls, which had suggested a narrow lead for Trzaskowski.
Nawrocki, a member of the national conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, is expected to use his presidential veto power to challenge Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro-European Union agenda. Although the presidency in Poland is largely ceremonial, the president holds significant influence through the ability to block legislation.
A historian by training, Nawrocki is known for his strong support of traditional Catholic and family values, as well as a commitment to Polish sovereignty within the EU. He has expressed support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression but opposes the country’s accession to NATO and the EU during the current conflict.
The election outcome is seen as a boost for the PiS opposition, which lost power 18 months ago. Nawrocki’s victory is expected to energize the party as it prepares for the 2027 parliamentary elections.
With the election of Nawrocki, Poland’s political landscape is poised for significant developments, particularly concerning its relationship with the European Union and domestic policy directions.
