Far-right candidate Calin Georgescu to challenge Elena Lasconi in Romania's presidential run-off
BUCHAREST, Nov 25 (Reuters) - In a surprising election result, hard-right independent Calin Georgescu, a NATO critic, is set to compete against centre-right leader Elena Lasconi in Romania's presidential run-off on December 8. Georgescu received 22.95% of votes, while Lasconi garnered 19.2%. This outcome contrasts sharply with pre-election polls that favored Social Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu. Georgescu's campaign, which focused on the rising cost of living, gained traction despite him polling in single digits before the vote. Georgescu has expressed controversial views, including praise for historical figures linked to Romania's far-right past. His election could shift Romania's political landscape, especially with parliamentary elections approaching on December 1.