In Poland’s presidential election runoff, centrist Rafal Trzaskowski and nationalist Karol Nawrocki aim to sway supporters of eliminated candidates. Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s broad coalition, which includes Trzaskowski’s Civic Coalition (KO), came to power in 2023 with promises to strengthen ties with the European Union and reverse controversial judicial reforms by the previous Law and Justice (PiS) government. However, Tusk’s plans face challenges due to veto powers held by outgoing PiS ally Andrzej Duda.
In the first round, Trzaskowski narrowly led Nawrocki, 31.4% to 29.5%, a tighter margin than polls had predicted. A recent Opinia24 poll shows Trzaskowski at 46% and Nawrocki at 44% for the runoff scheduled on June 1, with 10% undecided. Trzaskowski emphasized the need to connect with all voters, especially younger ones who participated in the elections but may be disillusioned.
Nawrocki, aiming to broaden his base, claims his social agenda can appeal to both left and right voters by securing the achievements made under the PiS government. The far-right candidates, Slawomir Mentzen and Grzegorz Braun, garnered over 21% of the votes, particularly resonating with young voters through their economically liberal and euroskeptic platforms. However, Mentzen has criticized Nawrocki, and it remains uncertain how his supporters will align in the runoff.
Meanwhile, two left-wing candidates secured over 9% but have not unified their backing for Trzaskowski. Magdalena Biejat, representing a coalition party, stressed the importance of Trzaskowski engaging seriously with left-leaning voters to gain their support in the forthcoming runoff.
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