| Published May 13, 2024
French nationalist leader Marine Le Pen has publicly endorsed Romanian presidential candidate George Simion ahead of Romania’s May 18 runoff election. Le Pen, leader of France’s National Rally, criticized the annulment of Romania’s 2024 presidential election, attributing it to European Union interference. She expressed full support for Simion, who secured over 40% of the vote in the first round, stating, “Romania has just handed Ursula von der Leyen a very nice boomerang” .
Simion, leader of the AUR party and self-proclaimed champion of Romanian sovereignty, has welcomed Le Pen’s endorsement with open arms. “Romania first. No more foreign dictates. No more betrayal of our people,” he declared. “Together, for a Europe of sovereign nations—for real freedom and true democracy.”
This high-profile endorsement has transformed Simion’s candidacy into a broader referendum on European globalism. While his opponent, technocrat, left-liberal mayor Nicușor Dan, represents the Macron–von der Leyen axis of centralization and conformity, Simion is blazing a trail for the anti-globalist right—backed now by one of its most influential European allies.
The runoff pits Simion against centrist Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan, who advocates for EU integration and continued support for Ukraine. Recent polls indicate a tight race, with both candidates polling at 48.2% . The election outcome is seen as pivotal for Romania’s future direction, particularly concerning its relationship with the EU and NATO.
George Simion gestures while attending a presidential debate alongside Nicusor Dan (not pictured), in Bucharest, Romania, May 8, 2025. Inquam Photos/Malina Norocea via REUTERS Purchase Licensing Rights
Marine Le Pen’s endorsement of George Simion in Romania’s presidential runoff could have significant implications:
1. Strengthening National Sovereignty:
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Le Pen’s support for Simion aligns with the conservative principle of national sovereignty. Simion’s “Romania first” stance and rejection of foreign influence resonate with the conservative view that nations should have the freedom to set their policies without external interference, especially from the EU.
2. Pushback Against EU Influence:
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Le Pen criticized the EU’s alleged interference in Romania’s election, which is consistent with a broader conservative critique of EU overreach. Simion’s potential victory could inspire other nationalist movements across Europe to resist EU directives they see as undermining their national interests.
3. Rise of Right-Wing Nationalism:
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If Simion wins, it could signal a broader European trend where nationalist, right-wing leaders are gaining traction by challenging globalist narratives. This aligns with the conservative view that prioritizes cultural identity, traditional values, and national pride.
4. Implications for NATO and Ukraine:
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Simion’s opposition to foreign influence could affect Romania’s stance on NATO and support for Ukraine. Conservatives who are skeptical of prolonged foreign entanglements may view this as a move toward a more independent foreign policy.
5. Political Momentum for European Conservatives:
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Le Pen’s backing of Simion is part of a larger conservative network in Europe. A Simion victory would not only be a win for Romania’s conservatives but could also boost the morale and visibility of nationalist leaders in other European nations.
People rally in support of the European Union, ahead of the presidential election run-off, in Bucharest, Romania, May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Andreea Campeanu Purchase Licensing Rights
Overall Takeaway:
Marine Le Pen’s endorsement of George Simion in Romania’s presidential runoff is that it highlights a growing European resistance to EU influence and a surge in nationalist, sovereignty-focused politics. This event underscores the ideological divide in Europe between those advocating for greater integration and those pushing for national independence and traditional values. A Simion victory could further empower conservative nationalist movements across Europe, challenging the dominance of pro-EU, centrist leadership.
SOURCES: THE GATEWAY PUNDIT – Le Pen Backs Romanian Nationalist Simion in Presidential Runoff, Blasts EU Meddling: “Romania First, No More Foreign Dictates”
REUTERS – Thousands rally in Romania in EU support ahead of presidential election run-off
AP NEWS – Thousands join a pro-EU rally in Romania’s capital as pivotal presidential runoff looms
FINANCIAL TIMES – Romanians face stark choice in presidential poll, says centrist candidate
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