Candidate profile // George Simion – from unionist activist to far-right favorite
George Simion, the leader of the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR), is one of the most controversial candidates in the 2025 presidential elections in Romania. With a nationalist and anti-establishment discourse inspired by Donald Trump's MAGA movement, Simion successfully advanced in the first round of the elections and qualified for the second round with a significant lead.
Activism and political rise
Born on September 21, 1986, in Vrancea County, George Simion holds a degree in history. As a young man, he was an activist advocating for the unification of Romania with the Republic of Moldova. He founded the platform Action 2012 and organized the Centenary March, actions that led to several entry bans for him in the Republic of Moldova (in 2015, 2016, and 2018) and in Ukraine (in 2024).
Transitioning from activism to politics, Simion initially ran as an independent candidate in the 2019 European Parliament elections, but after failing to secure a seat, he founded the AUR party. This party made a surprising entry into the Romanian Parliament in the 2020 elections, achieving over 9% of the vote and establishing itself as a voice for the radical right in Romania.
Controversy and ideological positioning
Simion has faced criticism for his anti-vaccine stance, opposition to Holocaust education, and views on minority groups. He was accused of inciting hatred and violence after making a call to "skin" members of the electoral authorities.
He has cultivated an image as an anti-establishment leader, refusing to participate in televised debates and instead communicating directly with his supporters through social media. He has been seen wearing red "Make Romania Great Again" caps and has appeared alongside figures from the international populist right, such as Steve Bannon.
Relationship with the Republic of Moldova
The Republic of Moldova plays a crucial role in George Simion's political discourse. From a young age, he campaigned for the unification of the two countries, framing it as a historical and identity-based goal. He organized marches, launched manifestos, and positioned himself as the "voice of Romanians across the Prut" River. However, his activism has been met with suspicion in Chișinău, leading Moldovan authorities to declare him persona non grata several times due to concerns about national security. In 2024, his ban was extended until 2028.
Simion’s recent statements regarding the Republic of Moldova have been contradictory. On one hand, he presented a “reunification” plan and stated that Moldova is “the son who must return home.” On the other hand, he has urged Romania to cease financial support for Chișinău, claiming that it reinforces an "artificial" statehood. He also stated that Romania would not intervene militarily in the event of a Russian attack on Moldova. This position has drawn sharp criticism from the public and Moldovan officials, who accuse him of acting, either intentionally or unintentionally, in Russia’s interests.
In interviews with foreign media, Simion has promised to promote "the restoration of Romania's pre-World War II borders," which would include territories in the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, and Bulgaria. These declarations have raised concerns in Kyiv, Brussels, and Washington.
** 2025 presidential elections and his geopolitical position**
Simion entered the presidential race in March 2025. During his campaign, he avoided direct confrontations and focused on themes of "restoring democracy," "reunification with Bessarabia," and rejecting the "Brussels dictate." He has expressed criticism of military aid to Ukraine and NATO's involvement in the region while labeling Russia as a "danger" and Vladimir Putin a "war criminal." His positions have been seen as contradictory, leading to reservations among Western leaders.
Having won the first round of the elections on May 4, 2025, with approximately 41% of the vote, Simion qualified for the second round. He garnered significant support from the diaspora and rural areas, surpassing mainstream party candidates, and is set to face independent candidate Nicușor Dan in the second round.
