Karol Nawrocki Wins Tight Presidential Election in Poland

WARSAW, Poland — Karol Nawrocki, a conservative nationalist, narrowly won Poland’s presidential election, according to official results released Monday by the electoral commission. Nawrocki secured 50.89% of the vote against liberal challenger Rafal Trzaskowski, who received 49.11%.

Nawrocki, 42, is linked to Poland’s right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party. His campaign concentrated on economic and social policies benefiting Polish citizens, often sidelining foreign nationals, including Ukrainian refugees. He has expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s potential EU membership, prompting criticism from Kyiv.

This election result marks a setback for Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki’s centrist, pro-EU government, which aimed to reverse numerous nationalist reforms implemented during PiS’s eight-year tenure. Nawrocki’s victory means the powerful presidential veto, often employed by outgoing President Andrzej Duda, remains with the nationalist opposition.

Supporters celebrated Nawrocki’s victory, chanting his name as he declared, “We will win tonight.” The election outcome has significant implications beyond Poland, drawing attention from Europe, the United States, and Russia due to Poland’s strategic position within NATO.

The narrow margin and high voter turnout of over 71% reflect a deeply polarized electorate. Nawrocki gained strong support from younger voters and rural areas, while Trzaskowski was favored by expatriates and voters in urban centers.

As Nawrocki prepares to assume office, Poland anticipates a period of political uncertainty, with competing power dynamics likely to shape the nation’s future.