Exit polls in Poland’s presidential run-off suggest a statistical tie between the two candidates, making the race too close to call in a nation grappling with deep divisions.
The outcome of this election carries significant weight, potentially shaping the country’s political trajectory and its relationship with the European Union.
Initial exit poll data indicated a slight lead for liberal Warsaw mayor Rafal Trzaskowski over conservative historian Karol Nawrocki. However, a later “late poll” update showed Mr. Nawrocki ahead with 50.7% of the vote, compared to Mr. Trzaskowski’s 49.3%.
Considering the margin of error inherent in polls, the winner remains uncertain.
Despite the lack of a clear final result, both candidates addressed their supporters in Warsaw, each claiming victory.
“We won,” Mr. Trzaskowski declared to his supporters at his election night gathering.
“This is truly a special moment in Poland’s history. I am convinced that it will allow us to move forward and focus on the future. I will be your president.”
Mr. Nawrocki, speaking at a separate event, expressed his confidence in securing the win.
“We will win and save Poland,” he stated. “We must win tonight.”
Official final results are anticipated on Monday.
This decisive run-off election pitted Mr. Trzaskowski, a liberal and pro-EU figure, against Mr. Nawrocki, a conservative historian supported by the right-wing Law and Justice party and aligned with US conservatives, including former President Donald Trump.
The closeness of the race highlights the profound social divisions within Poland.
The election’s outcome will determine whether Poland continues on a more nationalist path or shifts towards more liberal democratic principles.
With conservative President Andrzej Duda concluding his second and final term, Poland’s new president will wield considerable influence over the legislative agenda of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s centrist government, particularly concerning the presidential power of veto.
“We will not allow Donald Tusk’s grip on power to be completed,” Mr. Nawrocki asserted.
The run-off followed a closely fought first round of voting on May 18th, where Mr. Trzaskowski secured just over 31% and Mr. Nawrocki nearly 30%, resulting in the elimination of 11 other candidates.
