Romanian court confirms presidential election results after ballot recount
Romania's Constitutional Court has validated the first round of the presidential election, confirming Calin Georgescu, a far-right candidate, as the frontrunner. This decision follows a recount of all 9.4 million ballots cast on November 24. Georgescu narrowly defeated incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and will face reformist Elena Lasconi in a runoff on December 8. The recount was initiated after allegations of electoral fraud, including claims of misallocated votes. Concerns about Russian influence and electoral violations have emerged, leading to protests against Georgescu. Romania's media regulator is investigating TikTok's role in the election, amid claims of preferential treatment for Georgescu's campaign.