Poland votes in pivotal presidential election

Polish voters head to the polls in a pivotal presidential election that will shape the country's stance on EU integration and national priorities, as pro-European Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski faces off against nationalist historian Karol Nawrocki.

Sunday’s presidential election in Poland is set to determine whether the country continues on a pro-European trajectory under the Civic Coalition’s Rafal Trzaskowski or reverts to nationalist policies championed by Karol Nawrocki, backed by the PiS party. The election is widely viewed as a referendum on Prime Minister Donald Tusk's EU-focused vision since taking power in 2023.

While Trzaskowski leads in predictions, the race could head to a June 1 run-off if no candidate secures over 50% of the vote. Competing alongside him are far-right candidate Slawomir Mentzen, centrist Parliament Speaker Szymon Holownia, and Left candidate Magdalena Biejat.

Nawrocki has presented himself as a defender of traditional values, opposing liberal policies associated with Trzaskowski. Meanwhile, Trzaskowski has pledged to strengthen Poland's role in NATO and the EU while reversing controversial judicial reforms.

Polling stations opened early, with approximately 29 million voters eligible to cast their ballots. The outcome could significantly impact Poland’s domestic policies and its relationship with the EU.

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