Romanians living abroad are poised to help usher the far right into power back home.

In a surprising turn of events, George Simion, a nationalist figure known for his ultranationalist rhetoric and populist messaging, has emerged as a frontrunner in Romania's presidential elections, securing around 40% of the total votes in the first round and a staggering 60% among expatriates. This significant backing has raised concerns among local analysts about the implications of such a shift. Over four million Romanians live abroad, primarily in countries like Italy, Spain, and Germany, where economic opportunities often draw individuals away from their homeland. The discontent among these expats, many of whom occupy low-wage jobs, resonates with Simion's narrative of blaming the Romanian political establishment for their struggles. Simion's campaign, heavily reliant on social media platforms like TikTok where he boasts over 1.4 million followers and 30 million likes on his videos, is a reflection of how contemporary political campaigns are evolving. Analysts suggest that his direct appeal to these communities through social media has allowed him to circumvent traditional media, which might have scrutinized his more radical propositions, such as unifying Romania and Moldova and rejecting EU directives. The electoral landscape is evolving; the second round of elections, set for May 18, could mark a significant political shift for Romania, posing a stark choice between ultranationalism and pro-Western values. The situation is further complicated by a backdrop of social media influence operations reminiscent of questionable practices seen in other countries. Critics, including a local economist and political analysts, warn that the diaspora's support for candidates like Simion could further exacerbate existing issues in Romania, particularly in areas of governance, corruption, and socio-economic disparity. The political climate signals a rising trend of anti-establishment sentiments and populism across Europe, raising critical questions about the direction Romania might take if it were to elect a leader with such a controversial platform. Trends within the Romanian diaspora could reflect broader sentiments affecting other nations facing similar challenges.