According to a statement from the electoral bureau, the registration of Georgescu’s independent candidacy was rejected, though no reasons were provided for this decision.
Georgescu reacted to the move on the social media platform X, calling it “a direct blow to the heart of democracy worldwide.” He also stated, “Europe is now a dictatorship, Romania is under tyranny!” Georgescu is expected to challenge the decision.
Support for Georgescu turns violent in Bucharest
Following the announcement, hundreds of Georgescu’s supporters took to the streets in Bucharest, attempting to force their way into the electoral commission’s building. Police responded with tear gas after protesters broke through the barricades, and the situation escalated with stone-throwing and arson. Seven arrests were made and 13 police officers were injured, with four still requiring treatment in the hospital.
Why was Georgescu’s candidacy annulled?
In a surprising twist last November, Georgescu unexpectedly won the first round of the presidential election, but the victory was quickly nullified by Romania’s constitutional court just before the second round was set to occur. The court cited allegations of Russian interference in Georgescu’s favor, a claim denied by both him and Russia. Before the annulment, Georgescu was leading in polls with roughly 40% of the votes. However, he faces numerous legal challenges, including accusations of closeness to Russia and various charges related to his campaign financing and activity.
Georgescu’s stance on Trump
Georgescu has been a vocal opponent of sending aid to Ukraine and has positioned himself as a staunch supporter of US President Donald Trump. Key figures in Trump’s administration have publicly endorsed Georgescu. Trump advisor Elon Musk commented on the electoral commission’s decision, calling it “crazy!” US Vice President JD Vance has also criticized the constitutional court’s decision, alleging that the Romanian government “canceled elections because they don’t like the result” and is “so afraid of their own people that they silence them.”
