On Friday, Poland’s presidential campaign came to a close as the two leading candidates — liberal Rafał Trzaskowski and conservative Karol Nawrocki — held their final rallies ahead of the June 1 election.
In the first round of voting on May 18, Warsaw Mayor Trzaskowski, representing the Civic Platform party, secured over 31% of the vote. His rival, historian and political newcomer Karol Nawrocki, backed by the Law and Justice party, received nearly 30%. The remaining eleven candidates were eliminated. Polls suggest the two finalists are neck and neck going into the runoff.
Speaking to supporters in Gdańsk — a city symbolic of Poland’s democratic Solidarity movement — 53-year-old Trzaskowski emphasized his commitment to a pro-European direction and democratic values. He is considered a close ally of Prime Minister Donald Tusk and stressed the importance of strengthening ties with the European Union, calling it a “guarantee of security and prosperity.”
In his final speech, 42-year-old Nawrocki described himself as a “true citizen,” contrasting himself with his opponent, whom he referred to as a “product of a political laboratory.” Although he has no prior political experience, this is viewed as an advantage by many within Law and Justice, especially as the party prepares for the 2027 parliamentary elections.
Nawrocki’s campaign focuses on traditional values, EU skepticism, and closer ties with the United States. His supporters argue that backing from former U.S. President Donald Trump adds weight to his platform, particularly on matters of security and foreign relations.
Under Polish law, all campaign activity is prohibited after midnight on Friday. Exit polls are expected at 9:00 p.m. on election day, with final results anticipated on Monday.
