Karol Nawrocki wins Polish Presidency in nail-biting finish

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Monday, June 2nd, 2025

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rki.news
WARSAW – Conservative historian Karol Nawrocki has narrowly won Poland’s presidential election, securing 50.9% of the vote against liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski’s 49.1%, according to the state electoral commission (PKW).
The result reversed early exit polls that had projected a win for Trzaskowski, prompting premature celebrations by his supporters. Nawrocki remained cautious at the time, stating, “Let’s not lose hope. I believe we’ll wake up with President Karol Nawrocki.”
At 42, Nawrocki is relatively new to national politics but was backed strongly by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party. His victory is expected to energize PiS, which lost power 18 months ago, ahead of the 2027 parliamentary elections.
A staunch supporter of Polish sovereignty and traditional Catholic values, Nawrocki is likely to use his presidential veto to counter Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro-European Union agenda. Though the Polish presidency is largely ceremonial, the power to veto legislation remains influential, especially as Tusk’s coalition lacks the majority to override it.
Nawrocki has voiced support for continued aid to Ukraine but opposes its NATO and EU membership during ongoing hostilities. He also rejects EU climate and migration policies, positioning himself as a defender of national interests against Brussels’ influence.
A fan of Donald Trump, Nawrocki made headlines for flying to Washington mid-campaign to get a photo with the former U.S. president. His image as a strong, relatable figure was shaken by controversy over property ownership, which he addressed by pledging to donate one apartment to charity.
Outgoing president Andrzej Duda, who could not run again, congratulated Nawrocki on his win.