Romanian court confirms first round of presidential election results after recount

Romania's Constitutional Court has validated the first round of the presidential election, confirming far-right candidate Calin Georgescu as the frontrunner. This decision follows a recount prompted by allegations of electoral fraud and irregularities. Georgescu will face reformist candidate Elena Lasconi in a runoff on December 8. Lasconi narrowly defeated incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who received significant criticism during the election. Concerns about electoral integrity have arisen, particularly regarding Georgescu's rise and his connections to controversial figures. Investigations into potential manipulation of the election process, including the role of TikTok, are ongoing.