Romanians vote in first of several elections as nationalists gain ground

Romanians will vote on Sunday in the first of several elections, with anti-reform and anti-European candidates expected to perform well. This marks a shift as nationalist and populist forces gain strength amid President Klaus Iohannis's declining influence. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu of the Social Democratic Party is the frontrunner in the presidential race, polling at about 24%. The PSD has dominated Romanian politics for decades but is often associated with corruption, particularly in urban areas. George Simion, leader of the ultranationalist Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, and Elena Lasconi of the progressive Save Romania Union are also in contention, both polling around 15%. The elections could lead to significant changes in Romania's political landscape.