Poles are voting in the presidential election on Sunday, May 18, 2025, amidst heightened security concerns and debates over EU-US relations. The election is seen as crucial in determining Poland's future direction.
Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, a pro-European candidate, is a frontrunner. He is allied with Prime Minister Donald Tusk. His rival is nationalist historian Karol Nawrocki, who is supported by the Law and Justice party.
Recent polls indicate a close race between Trzaskowski and Nawrocki, with a second round likely on June 1 if no candidate secures a majority. Other candidates include Sławomir Mentzen, representing the far-right. The election focuses on Poland's stance on abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and the EU's migration policy.
The next president will take office on August 6, 2025. The new president will replace Andrzej Duda, whose second term is ending. The president's role includes commanding the armed forces and influencing foreign policy.