Calin Georgescu leads Romania's presidential race with calls for national self-sufficiency

Calin Georgescu, a far-right populist, emerged as a surprising front-runner in Romania's presidential election, advocating for national sovereignty and self-sufficiency. He topped the polls on November 24 and will face reformist Elena Lasconi in the final vote. Georgescu aims to prioritize Romania's independence in energy, food, and water, while addressing issues like poverty and drug use. His controversial past includes praising Putin and nationalist leaders, raising concerns about his potential impact on NATO unity. His rise is attributed to a strong social media presence, particularly on TikTok, where he has gained significant followers. Critics, including Lasconi, warn that his views threaten democracy and national security, labeling him as pro-Russian and anti-NATO.