• Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned and his Social Democrat party withdrew from the Romanian government after nationalist George Simion won 40.9% of the vote in the first round of the presidential election.
• Simion's success was significantly driven by support from Romanian diaspora voters, particularly in Spain, Italy, and the UK, who are drawn to his anti-establishment and ultranationalist rhetoric.
• Romania faces a period of political instability as a new coalition forms, with Simion's potential victory raising concerns about the country's future relationship with the EU and its support for Ukraine.

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned after George Simion, a right-wing nationalist, won 40.9% of the vote in the first round of the presidential election. This outcome has plunged Romania into political turmoil, with Simion's success largely attributed to popular frustration with the annulment of previous elections and his appeal to Romanian diaspora voters. The country now faces a period of uncertainty as it prepares for a runoff election on May 18.

• What: Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned after George Simion's strong performance in the first round of the presidential election.
• Who: Marcel Ciolacu (outgoing PM), George Simion (nationalist candidate), Nicușor Dan (liberal Bucharest Mayor), Ilie Bolojan (interim president), Catalin Predoiu (caretaker prime minister).
• When: First round of election: Sunday. Ciolacu's resignation: Monday evening. Runoff election: May 18.
• Where: Romania, with significant attention to the Romanian diaspora in countries like Spain, Italy, and the UK.

George Simion's success reflects a growing anti-establishment sentiment among Romanians, both within the country and in the diaspora. His ultranationalist rhetoric, combined with effective use of social media, particularly TikTok, has resonated with voters who feel ignored by the mainstream political parties. The election result signals a potential shift towards more nationalistic policies, raising concerns about Romania's relationship with the EU and its support for Ukraine. The annulment of the previous election due to Russian interference highlights the vulnerability of Romanian politics to external influence.

"I don’t know if those in the diaspora understand that through their vote they can destroy this country."

"The vote is a clear rejection of the ruling coalition. Both Simion and Dan are seen as ‘anti-system,’ even though they are diametrically opposed politically."

"Romania faces up to 45 days of political instability following Marcel Ciolacu's resignation. This creates a dangerous power vacuum precisely when Romania needs steady leadership most."

The resignation of Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and the rise of nationalist George Simion mark a significant turning point in Romanian politics. The upcoming runoff election will determine whether the country embraces a more nationalistic path or remains aligned with its pro-EU stance. The events also highlight the growing influence of social media and anti-establishment sentiment in shaping political outcomes.