KAROL Nawrocki, a conservative and nationalist historian, won Poland’s presidential runoff election held over the weekend, according to the final vote count confirmed on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Nawrocki secured 50.89 percent of the vote, defeating liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who received 49.11 percent in a closely contested race.
The election results revealed deep political divisions within Poland. Nawrocki, 42, is known for his eurosceptic views and nationalist stance. He previously led Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance.
Nawrocki’s campaign prioritized Polish citizens in economic and social policies, including a critical view of refugees from Ukraine. He received support from the right-wing Law and Justice party and United States President Donald Trump.
The conservative politician’s victory is expected to complicate the liberal agenda of Prime Minister Donald Tusk whose coalition government has struggled to implement reforms. Nawrocki’s presidency will likely steer Poland toward a more nationalist path, potentially including vetoes on liberal reforms related to abortion and LGBT rights.
Despite early exit polls suggesting a lead for Trzaskowski, updated results and the final tally confirmed Nawrocki’s narrow win.
Voter turnout was high at 72.8 percent, reflecting significant public engagement in the election. / From the wires