A new poll reveals a majority of Hungarians fear electoral fraud ahead of April 12th parliamentary elections, with suspicions falling on both ruling and opposition parties.
Widespread Concerns Over Election Integrity
A recent study shows that most Hungarians are concerned about potential election fraud. Half of respondents answered affirmatively when asked if they feared cheating, with an additional 8 percent responding “probably yes.” Only 30 percent of those surveyed expressed no fear of fraud, and 3 percent “probably” did not fear it.
Blame Game: Fidesz and TISZA Under Suspicion
Among those who fear fraud, two-thirds suspect the ruling Fidesz party of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, while 15 percent suspect the opposition party TISZA.
Foreign Interference a Major Worry
The survey also questioned respondents about potential foreign interference in the elections. 79 percent believe that other countries may be secretly influencing the elections, while 18 percent do not believe such a scenario is likely.
Limited Potential for Late-Campaign Shifts
A significant majority, 88 percent of respondents, do not believe any information emerging in the final stretch of the campaign would change their voting decision. Nine percent stated they could be swayed by a scandal, and 3 percent were undecided.
TISZA Leads in Independent Polls
Parliamentary elections in Hungary are scheduled for April 12th. The main opposition party, TISZA, currently leads Fidesz in most independent polls. A March survey by Median showed TISZA with 58 percent support among decided voters, compared to 35 percent for Fidesz. A Wednesday survey by 21 Research Center indicated TISZA with 56 percent support and Fidesz with 37 percent.
Government-Affiliated Polls Show Different Results
Polls conducted by organizations linked to the government indicate a lead for Orbán’s party, by several percentage points.
