Hungarians began voting Sunday in an election that could end Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule. The vote is being closely watched by Brussels, with many EU peers criticizing Orban over what they say is an erosion of Hungary’s democratic rule and media freedom.
Orban has been a friend to Russian President Vladimir Putin and a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump. His defeat could unblock a $105 billion European Union loan vital for Kyiv’s war effort, depriving Russia of its closest ally in the EU.
Public discontent with Orban is high due to economic stagnation, soaring living costs, and reports of oligarchs close to the government amassing wealth. Opinion polls show Fidesz trailing opposition Tisza party by 7-9 percentage points.
Orban has warned that a Tisza victory could drag Hungary into Russia’s war with Ukraine, something Tisza leader Peter Magyar strongly denies. Orban told supporters he expects Hungarians to vote for safety on Sunday.
Former loyalist Magyar is tapping into discontent over alleged state corruption and falling living standards, particularly among young voters eager for change. One 24-year-old said she plans to leave Hungary if Orban wins.
Orban’s popularity among the under-30s stands at just 8%, prompting him to scrap income tax for youngest workers and launch a subsidized mortgage scheme. Despite these measures, Magyar’s offer of change appears more appealing.
The outcome remains uncertain with many undecided voters, a redrawn electoral map favoring Fidesz, and a high proportion of ethnic Hungarians in neighboring countries who mostly support the ruling party.