Poland's Big Choice: EU Support vs. National Pride

On May 18, 2025, Poland's citizens headed to the polls for a crucial presidential election. This vote will steer the country's political direction and influence key issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and ties with the European Union. The voting process kicked off at 7 a. m. and wrapped up at 9 p. m. , with initial results from exit polls expected after the polls closed. The main contenders are Rafał Trzaskowski, the pro-EU mayor of Warsaw, and Karol Nawrocki, a nationalist historian. Trzaskowski is backed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk's centrist Civic Coalition, while Nawrocki has the support of the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party. Recent polls suggest Trzaskowski is in the lead with about 30% support, with Nawrocki trailing slightly behind in the mid-20s. This sets the stage for a likely runoff between the two on June 1. Trzaskowski advocates for abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protections, while Nawrocki champions conservative values and national sovereignty. The stakes are high, as the outcome will impact Poland's relationship with the EU and shape domestic policies. A win for Trzaskowski could ease tensions between the prime minister and the outgoing conservative President Andrzej Duda, who has blocked many of the Tusk government's policy reforms. Conversely, a Nawrocki victory might stall the coalition's agenda. The election is also significant because it could determine the influence of far-right candidate Sławomir Mentzen. Mentzen's anti-immigration and anti-EU stance could make him a key player in the second round. Other candidates in the race include Parliament Speaker Szymon Holownia of the centre-right Poland 2050 and Magdalena Biejat from the Left. The results of this election are expected to be announced by Monday or Tuesday. The political landscape in Poland is tense, with a struggle between the prime minister and the outgoing president. This election will not only decide the next leader but also the future direction of the country's policies and international relations. The outcome will have far-reaching effects on issues that matter to many Poles, from social rights to economic policies.