Romania holds presidential election as far-right candidate gains traction

Romanians began voting in the first round of the presidential election on Sunday, with Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and nationalist George Simion as the main candidates. Thirteen candidates are running, with the top two advancing to a second round on December 8. Ciolacu, from the Social Democratic Party, is polling at 25% and emphasizes stability. Simion, from the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians, opposes military aid to Ukraine and aims to promote Romanian culture. The election comes amid rising concerns over inflation and poverty, which may enhance Simion's appeal. The diaspora's participation is expected to be significant, as Romania also prepares for parliamentary elections on December 1.