Conservative Karol Nawrocki Wins Poland’s Presidential Election

Conservative Karol Nawrocki has won Poland’s presidential runoff election, according to the final vote count.

Although most executive power in Poland lies with the prime minister, the presidency carries significant influence over foreign policy and holds veto power over legislation. I Photo: Karol Nawrocki Facebook

Nawrocki secured 50.89% of the vote in a razor-thin victory over liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who garnered 49.11%.

The close race had the country on edge since the first round two weeks ago, and tensions remained high through the night into Monday. Early exit polls on Sunday evening suggested a Trzaskowski lead, but updated data later reversed the outcome.

Nawrocki’s win signals a more nationalist course for Poland under a president backed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Although most executive power in Poland lies with the prime minister, the presidency carries significant influence over foreign policy and holds veto power over legislation.

Nawrocki will succeed fellow conservative Andrzej Duda, whose second and final term ends on August 6.