Introduction
On Sunday, Poland will vote in a decisive runoff in the 2025 presidential election. The battle is tight between liberal mayor Rafal Trzaskowski and conservative historian Karol Nawrocki. The outcome will shape Poland’s domestic agenda and determine its relationship with the European Union.
The Power of the Presidency
While mostly ceremonial, the Polish presidency holds veto authority, making it a gatekeeper for legislation. The current pro-EU coalition under Prime Minister Donald Tusk does not have enough seats to override a veto—elevating the importance of this election. For deeper background, read our Polish Parliamentary Elections 2023 recap.
Candidate Profile: Rafal Trzaskowski
Trzaskowski, 53, is mayor of Warsaw and deputy leader of the Civic Platform. He is pro-European, multilingual, and progressive—supporting LGBT rights, migrant integration, and legal abortion up to 12 weeks. His base is urban, educated, and liberal.
Trzaskowski’s messaging focuses on rule of law and EU cooperation. He promises to remove barriers to progressive legislation stalled under conservative President Andrzej Duda. Supporters say he represents a “modern European Poland.”
Candidate Profile: Karol Nawrocki
Nawrocki, 42, heads the Institute of National Remembrance. His image is built around patriotism, family values, and Catholic traditions. Backed by the Law and Justice Party (PiS), he appeals to older, rural voters and is skeptical of EU influence.
Though plagued by allegations—including links to hooliganism and improper real estate deals—Nawrocki denies wrongdoing and portrays himself as resilient, echoing the Chumbawamba chorus, “I get knocked down, but I get up again.”
Voter Base and Turnout Tactics
Sunday’s turnout will be crucial. Trzaskowski and Nawrocki each held massive rival rallies last weekend in Warsaw. Nawrocki’s events were steeped in nationalism with Polish flags, while Trzaskowski’s rally featured European symbols and was joined by Romanian president-elect Nicusur Dan.
Key to victory will be the redistribution of votes from far-right candidates, whose supporters align socially with Nawrocki but oppose his economic statism. For a detailed breakdown of Polish political factions, explore our guide to EU-Poland Policy Conflicts.
Conclusion: Poland’s Future at Stake
This runoff is more than a vote—it’s a referendum on Poland’s identity. Will it pursue EU integration under Trzaskowski, or deepen nationalism with Nawrocki? As war looms near in Ukraine and migration pressures rise, Poland’s choice will echo across Europe.
Track our live election coverage here: https://yourblog.com/poland-2025-election
