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The election is being closely watched by the US, the EU and Russia. In a strong show of support, JD Vance travelled to Budapest.
Victor Orbán Faces Tough Fight as Hungary Heads to Polls
Hungarians are voting in a closely fought parliamentary election that could remove Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power. The outcome may reshape Hungary’s ties with the European Union, Russia and the United States.
Orbán, known for promoting what he calls an “illiberal democracy”, is the EU’s longest-serving prime minister and a close ally of Donald Trump. His position now appears uncertain after more than a decade and a half in control.
World is watching
The election is being closely watched by the US, the EU and Russia. In a strong show of support, JD Vance travelled to Budapest. At a rally, he connected Trump on speaker, who praised Orbán and urged voters to stand by him.
What is at stake?
Over 16 years, Orbán has reshaped Hungary’s political system. He rewrote the constitution, reworked the judiciary and strengthened control over the media, placing loyalists across institutions.
Hungary continues to hold elections and allow opposition campaigns, but the system has been tilted in favour of the ruling Fidesz Party. Opponents must secure overwhelming support to overcome these structural advantages.
Rising challenge to Orbán
Despite his long dominance, Orbán faces growing dissatisfaction. Economic stagnation, rising living costs and accusations of favouring a small circle of loyalists have weakened his standing.
His government’s close ties with Russia have also drawn criticism. Reports suggest Hungary may have worked with Moscow to block Ukraine’s path to EU membership.
Current polling shows Fidesz at 37%, trailing the opposition Tisza Party at 50%. The party is led by Peter Magyar, a former insider who turned against the government.
Magyar gained attention in 2024 after resigning from official roles following a controversial presidential pardon case. He positioned the government as focused on holding power at any cost. His party performed strongly in the 2024 European elections, securing 30% of the vote.
Election impact beyond Hungary
The result will have wider consequences. For the EU, a new leadership could mean stronger support for European integration and Ukraine. Orbán has often opposed both.
For Russia, the stakes are high. Orbán has been one of Moscow’s closest partners within the EU. A change in government could remove that support.
However, even if Magyar wins, challenges remain. Without a supermajority, his government could face resistance from institutions like the Constitutional Court, which is dominated by Orbán loyalists.
Trump-Orbán alliance
Trump and Orbán share a long-standing political relationship. Orbán was the first EU leader to support Trump’s presidential bid, seeing common ground on issues like immigration and globalism.
Their ties have grown over time, with multiple meetings in Washington and at Trump’s residence. Orbán’s style of governance has influenced sections of American conservative politics.
Hungary has engaged with US conservative groups, hosting events and think tanks that support similar ideas. This connection has shaped political thinking within Trump’s circle.
Economic and political links
Hungary has benefited in some areas, including exemptions from US sanctions on Russian energy. However, it has also been affected by US tariffs on EU goods, impacting sectors like automotive and electronics.
Orbán has at times broken ranks with the EU to maintain his relationship with Trump.
The election result will be watched closely by conservative movements worldwide. Hungary under Orbán has been seen as a model for right-wing politics.
A defeat for Orbán would mark a significant shift, not just for Hungary, but for the broader global political landscape.
April 12, 2026, 1:25 PM IST
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