Simion Seeks Orbán's Support and Hungarian Votes

George Simion, leader of the nationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has attempted to court Romania's ethnic Hungarian minority and Orbán himself as part of his push to expand voter support. Simion came first in the rerun of the election's first round earlier this month with nearly 41% of the vote. Reformist Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan finished second with 21%.

The rerun followed the cancellation of the original election attempt, which was nullified by a Romanian court due to allegations of Russian influence in favor of far-right figure Calin Georgescu, who has since been banned from running.

Simion, a vocal supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has recently praised Orbán as a role model, despite a past filled with rhetoric critical of Romania's Hungarian community. He also commended the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR/RMDSZ), calling it the only serious party in the governing coalition. These comments mark a stark change from his previous positions that targeted Hungarian minority rights.

Orbán Responds Amid UDMR Backlash

Orbán initially responded positively, saying he "fully" agreed with Simion on matters such as protecting Christianity and national sovereignty. However, his remarks triggered strong criticism from UDMR leadership. Kelemen Hunor, president of UDMR, dismissed any suggestion that Simion could represent Hungarian interests, accusing him of past efforts to marginalize the Hungarian community.

Hunor stated that Simion's political actions have consistently aimed to restrict Hungarian language rights and the use of national symbols, arguing that "George Simion is not a friend of the Hungarians — and never will be."

Following this backlash, Orbán clarified his stance. He said he had spoken with Hunor and emphasized that Hungary would not interfere in Romania's elections. He stressed that UDMR's position should be respected and that the interests of Transylvania's Hungarian population should guide the political approach.

Hungarian Minority Remains a Key Group

Romania's ethnic Hungarian population exceeds one million, primarily residing in the central Transylvania region. Their historically high voter turnout makes them a significant demographic in any national election.

As the May 18 runoff approaches, Simion is set to face Nicușor Dan, an independent and pro-European Union candidate. The outcome could be influenced by how ethnic minorities, especially the Hungarians, choose to cast their votes in a race marked by shifting alliances and rhetoric.

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