Prime Minister Viktor Orban is facing the most serious threat to his power in decades
Turnout in Hungary’s parliamentary election has surpassed a record 16%, as polling stations opened nationwide on Sunday in one of Europe’s most consequential votes this year, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban facing his strongest challenge since returning to power in 2010.
The vote could determine not only who governs Hungary next, but also how far Budapest continues to resist Brussels on issues ranging from Ukraine and sanctions to migration and rule-of-law disputes.
Orban and his ruling Fidesz alliance are being challenged by Peter Magyar and his insurgent Tisza party, which has surged in the polls after campaigning on corruption, public services and restoring ties with the European Union. Independent polling summarized by AP suggests Tisza entered election day with momentum, though the race is still expected to be tight because of Fidesz’s entrenched rural support and the advantages Orban enjoys from incumbency and Hungary’s electoral system.
The stakes extend well beyond Hungary. Orban has spent years frustrating EU partners with his stance on Russia, sanctions and military support for Ukraine, making this election a closely watched test for Brussels as well as for Orban’s allies on the international right.
Both Magyar and Orban cast their ballots in Budapest early in the morning. Orban told reporters he is “here to win.” Asked about his 16 years in power and any regrets, he replied, “Thank you very much, I’m fine,” adding the campaign brought “many uplifting moments” and opportunities to meet voters.
Magyar also struck a confident tone, insisting that “no one can seriously think that the Tisza, and thus Hungary, will not win the election.”
The election is taking place on a single day for all 199 seats in Hungary’s National Assembly, with results expected to start coming in after polls close at 7pm.
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