Poland holds presidential elections

Polish citizens are heading to the polls today to elect the country’s next president, with 13 registered candidates competing for the position. Approximately 29 million voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the closely watched race.

According to recent polls, the leading contender is Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, the candidate backed by the ruling party. He is followed closely by Karol Nawrocki, supported by the right-wing conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party.

Trzaskowski is currently polling at around 30%, while Nawrocki has garnered approximately 25% support. In third place is Sławomir Mentzen, the candidate from the Confederation party, known for its anti-Ukrainian rhetoric and nationalist stance.

If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on June 1 between the top two contenders.

The newly elected president must be sworn in by August 6, 2025, when the term of the current head of state, Andrzej Duda, officially ends. Duda, who has served two consecutive terms, is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election.

Poles elect their president every five years, and the position carries significant influence, including veto power over legislation and a key role in foreign and security policy. The outcome of the vote is expected to shape Poland’s political direction and its relationship with the European Union in the years ahead.