Polish government concerned about upcoming presidential election – DW – May 17, 2025

Voters in Poland will head to the polls on May 18 for the first round of the presidential election, with the outcome determining the direction of the country’s governance. The election is not merely a choice between the left-wing liberal candidate Rafal Trzaskowski and the national-conservative Karol Nawrocki but also a vote on the nation’s future policies. If Trzaskowski wins, the pro-European, center-left government led by Donald Tusk could continue with reforms, such as restoring the rule of law and increasing rights for the LBGTQ+ community. However, President Andrzej Duda, who has more power than the German president but less than that of French or American counterparts, has blocked most of these reforms. With high hopes for swift pro-democracy reform dashed, the country is divided, and victory for Trzaskowski is not guaranteed. This tension could result in a runoff election in two weeks, with many’s choice depending on whether they will back Trzaskowski or stay home, and where the supporters of the far-right candidate Slawomir Mentzen will align.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/tusk-government-anxious-ahead-of-polish-presidential-vote/a-72562006?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf