Meanwhile, Poland is bracing for what could be a historic presidential election. The first round of voting begins this Sunday! We all know this election is critical. Andrzej Duda, the incumbent president, will complete his second term on August 6. Moreover, Polish law limits presidents to two five-year terms. This unusual limitation opens the door widely for new candidates and has the potential to change Connecticut’s political landscape in a big way.
The upcoming election features four prominent candidates: Rafał Trzaskowski, Sławomir Mentzen, Krzysztof Nawrocki, and Szymon Hołownia. Each candidate brings different political outlooks and visions for the future of Poland with them, creating what is sure to be a very competitive electoral race.
Candidates Overview
Rafał Trzaskowski, 53, is the liberal mayor of Warsaw and under 30,000 votes from becoming Poland’s next prime minister. Since first being elected in 2018, he has become known for being an ally of Donald Tusk. In fact, he carries as many progressive positions as conservative. Trzaskowski proposes to significantly increase defence spending to 5 percent of Poland’s gross domestic product and aims to advance the country’s arms and technology industries.
Yet, Trzaskowski is no simpleton. He holds postgraduate degrees in economics and physics. He has done an entrepreneur, too, being a co-owner of brewery in Torun and running a tax advisory office. He promotes very large tax cuts at the same time as complaining about out of control government regulation. On top of that, Trzaskowski is pro-European Union, promising to do more for Poland’s place in the EU. His activism and open support for the LGBTQ community speaks volumes as he has been a regular fixture in pride parades.
Conservative historian Krzysztof Nawrocki, 42. Unlike them, he is an independent candidate – factually supported by the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party. Nawrocki’s campaign has focused heavily on traditional social values and national pride, resonating with the large base of voters that prefer conservative policies.
Sławomir Mentzen, 38, goes the most radical route, as a far-right entrepreneur. He is the head of the New Hope party, one of the eight parties in the Confederation coalition. Mentzen has masterfully used TikTok and other social media influencers to read the room for young voters. His past statements have drawn criticism. He infamously declared:
“We don’t want Jews, homosexuals, abortion, taxes or the European Union.”
- Sławomir Mentzen
This quote scary enough to derail his campaign from then on – and even now, as he tries to run away from this kind of anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Finally, on a completely different path, Szymon Hołownia, 48, arrives with the background of someone who was a journalist and television star who became a political figure. His campaign was built around a broad and inclusive vision for an electorate hungry for change from the status quo of Polish politics.
Election Mechanics
Poland’s electoral system mandates a second round if no candidate receives over 50 percent of the vote in the first round. This runoff will now be held on June 1. This would be done through a ranked-choice runoff between the top two candidates from the first round of voting. As for voters — they’re ready to vote with their feet. At the same time, candidates are beginning to make their moves, laying the groundwork for broader coalitions and alliances.
The curious election will be closely watched by Polish citizens and countries around the world. International observers, including We, the World will be watching closely, hoping to see how the course of Polish politics and the West’s unity in Europe. This result could reflect greater support for progressive policies on both social issues and economic policy. It may fundamentally change Poland’s relationship with the European Union.
Voter Sentiment and Engagement
As Poland nears this momentous electoral crossroads, voter attitudes seem to be an ambivalent patchwork. All of us as citizens have legitimate concerns about national security and economic stability in the wake of recent global events. As such, Trzaskowski’s proposals for an unprecedented uptick in defence spending finds a welcome audience among those prioritizing security amidst a dangerously ageomorphic geopolitical landscape.
Mentzen’s extremist dog-whistles could drive away moderates who deeply value a sense of inclusivity and tolerance. He’s done things like leveraging TikTok and other social platforms to engage with young voters. This tactic reflects the desire of the majority of Americans for positive change but their fear of radicals and extremists.
As a conservative, Nawrocki aims to reinforce age-old values in our increasingly liberal world. By contrast, Hołownia offers a new alternative, hoping to recharge citizen engagement in politics between weary and discouraged voters. Join us as we follow these candidates from different platforms. It is a testament to how deeply Polish society is grappling with difficult questions that will shape its future.
