Mon Jun 02 15:11:27 UTC 2025: **Right-Wing Historian Karol Nawrocki Wins Polish Presidential Election in Narrow Upset**

**Warsaw, Poland** – In a stunning upset, right-wing historian Karol Nawrocki narrowly defeated Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski in Sunday’s presidential election, securing 50.89% of the vote according to the National Electoral Commission. Trzaskowski, backed by the ruling center-right coalition led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, garnered 49.11%.

The victory comes as a surprise as exit polls had projected a loss for Nawrocki, who ran as an independent candidate supported by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party and outgoing President Andrzej Duda.

Nawrocki, 42, is known for his staunch conservative views and his work at the Institute of National Remembrance, a government-funded research institute focused on Poland’s history during World War II and the communist era. During his tenure, he has removed Soviet memorials, drawing criticism from Russia. He also served as administrator of the Museum of the Second World War in Gdansk.

His campaign focused on promises to lower taxes, withdraw Poland from the EU’s Pact on Migration and Asylum and the European Green Deal, and increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. Nawrocki is also opposed to Ukraine joining NATO and the EU.

Analysts suggest the consistency of Nawrocki’s messaging resonated with voters. “People choose someone they see as strong, clear, and consistent,” said Liliana Smiech, chairwoman of the Foundation Council at Warsaw Institute. “Nawrocki looks like someone who can handle pressure. He became the president for difficult times.”

The election saw backing from the United States, with representatives from the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) publicly endorsing Nawrocki.

Nawrocki’s victory sets the stage for potential clashes with Prime Minister Tusk and his coalition government. The president holds the power to veto legislation and influence military and foreign policy decisions.

Key issues facing the incoming president include navigating the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, addressing concerns about abortion laws, and tackling economic anxieties related to taxes and housing costs.

Nawrocki is expected to be sworn in on August 6th.

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