George Simion, the leader of Romania’s nationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the country’s presidential race, securing approximately 40% of the vote in the first round of elections held on May 4, according to partial unofficial results released late in the night.

Simion’s strong showing signals a possible shift in Romania’s political landscape. With his party currently holding around 30% of seats in parliament, a presidential win would give Simion substantial influence over the country’s direction, particularly in foreign policy and its position within the European Union. Analysts warn this could lead to political instability or alter Romania’s stance on regional issues, including the war in Ukraine.

With about 90% of voting sections counted by 0:12 local time, Simion significantly outperformed other candidates in a race marked by a moderate turnout of 53.2%. His current lead surpasses his performance — and that of his political mentor Călin Georgescu — in the annulled presidential vote last year.

The race for second place remains highly competitive. Independent candidate and current Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan is slightly ahead of the ruling coalition's nominee Crin Antonescu, with 20.93% and 20.43% of the vote, respectively. The narrow margin leaves the final outcome of who will face Simion in the second round undecided pending full official results.

Victor Ponta, a former prime minister and the fourth-placed candidate, received around 15% of the vote. His electorate is widely expected to support Simion in the runoff, further strengthening the nationalist candidate's position.

Following the release of exit poll data, Simion reiterated his promise to “restore the constitutional order” and bring Georgescu into power, though he did not clarify how this would be achieved under current constitutional provisions.

“I don’t want the power for me,” Simion said in his address. “I say here in front of the Romanian people, I will keep my word. Romania needs his [Georgescu’s] wisdom … I have only one objective: to give back to the Romanian people what was taken from them.”