On November 24, 2024, Romanians are called to the polls to elect their new president, in an electoral process that represents one of the most important moments in democracy. If no candidate secures an absolute majority of the votes, a second round of elections is scheduled for December 8.

What Is the Role of the President of Romania?

The President of Romania is the head of state, the guarantor of national independence, and the unity and territorial integrity of the country. According to Article 80 of the Romanian Constitution, the president must ensure compliance with the Constitution and the proper functioning of public authorities, acting as a mediator between the state and society.

A presidential term lasts five years, and a person can hold this office for a maximum of two consecutive terms. During the mandate, the president cannot be a member of any political party and benefits from immunity for opinions expressed in the exercise of the role.

How Are the Presidential Elections Conducted?

Presidential elections are based on universal, equal, direct, secret, and freely expressed voting. Every eligible citizen can participate in the election, which takes place from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, both in Romania and abroad.

If no candidate obtains 50% + 1 of the total votes cast, a second round is held between the top two candidates with the most votes. This is scheduled for December 8, 2024.

Who Are the Candidates for the 2024 Presidential Elections?

The official list of candidates, determined by the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) through a draw, includes:

1. Elena Lasconi – Save Romania Union (USR)
2. George Simion – Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR)
3. Marcel Ciolacu – Social Democratic Party (PSD)
4. Nicolae Ciucă – National Liberal Party (PNL)
5. Hunor Kelemen – Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR)
6. Mircea Geoană – Independent candidate
7. Ana Birchall – Independent candidate
8. Alexandra Beatrice Bertalan-Păcuraru – Alternative for National Dignity
9. Sebastian-Constantin Popescu – New Romania Party
10. Ludovic Orban – Force of the Right (withdrawn from the race)
11. Călin Georgescu – Independent candidate
12. Cristian Diaconescu – Independent candidate
13. Cristian-Vasile Terheș – Romanian National Conservative Party
14. Silviu Predoiu – National Action League Party

Ludovic Orban Withdraws from the Race

Although Ludovic Orban announced his withdrawal from the competition, his name will remain on the ballots as they have already been printed, in accordance with the law. During a debate organized by Digi24, Orban expressed his political support for Elena Lasconi, the USR candidate.

What Do the Ballots Look Like?

The ballots for the presidential elections are printed by the Autonomous Administration of the Official Gazette and list the candidates in the order established through the draw. According to Law 370/2004, ballots are printed in a quantity equal to the number of voters registered in the permanent electoral lists, with an additional 10% and the necessary amount for polling stations abroad.

Even if a candidate withdraws, votes cast for them will be counted but will not affect the final outcome.

Why Is Voting Important?

The President of Romania holds critical responsibilities, such as:

– Representing the Romanian state internationally;

– Ensuring compliance with the Constitution;

– Awarding decorations and individual pardons;

– Mobilizing armed forces in case of aggression or national emergency.

Voting is a fundamental right of every citizen to shape the country’s future. Participation at the polls is essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring a fair electoral process.

What Happens After the Elections?

The mandate of the new president begins after taking the oath before Parliament. The elected president will exercise their duties until the successor takes the oath.

The 2024 presidential elections are an important opportunity for Romanians to decide the direction the country will take over the next five years. By voting, every citizen contributes to shaping Romania’s political, economic, and social future. On November 24, make your voice heard—go out and vote!