Poland’s Presidential Race Heats Up as Rival Rallies Draw Massive Crowds in Warsaw

Tens of thousands took to the streets of Warsaw on Sunday in a dramatic show of support for the two leading candidates in Poland’s closely watched presidential election, set for next week. The vote is seen as pivotal for the country's future direction, especially regarding democratic reform and foreign alliances.

Liberal candidate and Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, backed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, led a massive rally with around 140,000 supporters, according to unofficial city estimates. Trzaskowski aims to succeed outgoing President Andrzej Duda, a nationalist who frequently blocked Tusk’s efforts to overhaul the judiciary. Addressing the crowd, Trzaskowski declared, "All of Poland is looking at us. All of Europe is looking at us."

Tusk, who came to power in 2023 with a coalition of centrist and left-leaning parties, promised to reverse democratic backsliding under the nationalist Law and Justice party. Trzaskowski narrowly led the May 18 first round, beating right-wing candidate Karol Nawrocki by two percentage points. However, recent polls show a tightening race.

Meanwhile, Nawrocki’s rally drew approximately 50,000 people. His supporters, many holding pro-Trump signs and banners opposing immigration, emphasized national sovereignty. "I am the voice of those ignored by Tusk," Nawrocki said, criticizing liberal policies and pledging stronger ties with the U.S.

Romanian President Nicusor Dan, newly elected after defeating a hard-right Trump ally, joined Trzaskowski’s rally and vowed closer EU cooperation. His win was widely welcomed in Brussels, signaling resistance to growing far-right influence in Europe.

As both sides gear up for the decisive vote, young voters like 21-year-old Jakub Kaszycki say the election will determine whether Poland moves closer to Europe—or drifts toward authoritarianism.