Far-right populist Calin Georgescu leads Romania's presidential election as incumbent fails to advance

Calin Georgescu, a little-known far-right populist, has unexpectedly secured the lead in Romania's presidential election, receiving about 22.95% of the vote. He will face reformist candidate Elena Lasconi, who garnered 19.17%. This election marks a significant shift, as incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu did not advance to the second round, receiving only 19.15%. This is the first time since the fall of communism that the Social Democratic Party lacks a candidate in the final round. Ciolacu has resigned as PSD leader following his defeat. The second round of voting is scheduled for December 8, with over 52% of eligible voters participating in the first round.