Far-right populist advances to runoff in Romania's presidential election
A little-known far-right populist, Calin Georgescu, has advanced to the runoff of Romania's presidential election after receiving about 22.95% of the vote. He surpassed incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who received 19.15%. Georgescu will face reformist candidate Elena Lasconi, who garnered 19.17%. This marks the first time in 35 years that the Social Democratic Party will not have a candidate in the second round, reflecting a shift in voter sentiment. The runoff is scheduled for December 8. Georgescu's rise is notable, as he previously had low expectations in polls. Lasconi, if elected, would become Romania's first female president.