Runoff election in Poland: Trzaskowski vs. Nawrocki – Who will win the duel?

Runoff election in Poland: Trzaskowski vs. Nawrocki – Who will win the duel?

On Sunday, June 1, 2025, Poland faces a crucial runoff election for the presidency. Just two weeks after the first round of elections, which took place on May 19, two opponents are starting the fight for the country's political future. Voters have the choice between the liberal pro-EuropeanRafal Trzaskowskiand the right-wing nationalist oneKarol Nawrocki.

The first election results show an exciting head-to-head race. Trzaskowski was in the first round with 31.3% of the vote, just ahead of Nawrocki, who got 29.6%. The right-wing extremist candidate became the third forceSlawomir Mentzenwith 14.8% and the candidateGrzegorz Braunscored 6.3%. The voter turnout was 66.8%, which indicates a keen interest from the population. On election day, the polling stations will open at 7 a.m. and remain open until 9 p.m., as reported by FR.

A groundbreaking election campaign

The importance of this election cannot be overstated. A victory for Trzaskowski, who is also mayor of Warsaw and stands for policies of equality and support for women's and LGBTQ rights, could provide new impetus for the government's pro-European agendaDonald Tuskgive. Trzaskowski has also indicated that he will campaign for the legalization of abortions up to the twelfth week of pregnancy.

In contrast to this is Nawrocki, who is from the national conservativesPiSis supported and focuses on taking a tough stance towards the EU, especially with regard to support for Ukrainian refugees. Nawrocki, who is considered an admirer ofDonald Trumpapplies, could continue a policy of blockade against the Tusk government, which has successfully prevented several reform attempts in the past with its veto power. This could have far-reaching consequences for Poland's EU and foreign policy, such as Federal Agency for Civic Education analyzed.

Relevant topics and influencing factors

The upcoming elections are not only a clash of candidates, but also reflect the current political mood in the country. Issues such as security, inflation and Polish-Ukrainian relations are at the forefront and could be decisive for voters' decision to vote. According to reports from Company Today, the election is perceived as a clear test of the support or rejection of the current government, which has been in office since December 13th with Donald Tusk at the helm.

The pressure is high because the Tusk government needs clear presidential support to push through its reforms. A president who supports the government's agenda could thus initiate significant changes in Poland's justice system and other areas, while a victory for Nawrocki could shift the political balance in favor of a nationalist agenda. Observers have also noted indications of possible Russian influence in the run-up to the elections, which makes the political situation even more explosive.

Overall, voters appear to be facing a choice that will decide not only their own political future, but also the direction Poland will take in Europe.