Poland's pro-EU administration suffers a setback with the election of Trump supporter Nawrocki
In a major blow for Poland's pro-EU government, nationalist historian Karol Nawrocki was declared the winner of the presidential election on Monday, securing 50.9% of the vote in a highly polarized NATO and EU nation. His rival, Warsaw's pro-EU mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, garnered 49.1% of the vote.
Nawrocki, an admirer of US President Donald Trump, is expected to block the government's progressive agenda, which includes abortion and LGBTQ rights, and potentially revive tensions with Brussels over rule-of-law issues. His victory could also undermine strong ties with neighboring Ukraine, as he is critical of Kyiv's EU and NATO accession plans and wishes to cut benefits for Ukrainian refugees.
Nawrocki, who has visited the White House during his campaign, claims he was told by Trump, "You will win." US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem endorsed Nawrocki last week, stating, "He needs to be the next president."
Many of Nawrocki's supporters want stricter curbs on immigration, advocate for conservative social values, and seek more sovereignty for the country within the European Union. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed confidence in continuing "very good cooperation" with Warsaw.
Polish presidents have some influence over foreign and defense policy and wield veto power over legislation, which can only be overturned by a three-fifths majority in parliament. The new president's victory could embolden the populist Law and Justice (PiS) party, leading to fresh parliamentary elections or political deadlock with the government.
The results follow a tense evening, as both candidates had claimed victory when an exit poll indicated they were neck and neck. Outgoing President Andrzej Duda, a conservative who has served the two-term limit, congratulated Nawrocki and thanked Poles for the turnout, which was 72%.
Nawrocki's campaign was marred by controversies, including a murky apartment purchase and his football hooligan past. However, his supporters view him as a patriot, with one voter commenting, "He is a patriot." Trzaskowski voters tend to back greater integration within the EU and an acceleration of social reforms.
Nawrocki's win has potential implications for both domestic and international relations, such as increased Euroscepticism, conservative stances on LGBTQ rights, and complicated EU membership negotiations. The full impact of his presidency remains to be seen.
The victory of Karol Nawrocki, the polarizing President-elect of Poland, could spark increased Euroscepticism and conservative stances on LGBTQ rights within the domestic economy. Internationally, his presidency may complicate EU membership negotiations and further strain relations with neighboring Ukraine, particularly regarding Ukrainian refugee benefits.
