A new poll indicates Mateusz Morawiecki is preferred over Przemysław Czarnk as Poland’s next prime minister, though a majority remain undecided.
Morawiecki’s Edge in Polling
32.3% of respondents stated they would prefer Mateusz Morawiecki as prime minister, while 13.4% favored Przemysław Czarnk. However, a significant 54.3% expressed indifference regarding who leads the government.
PiS’s Choice of Czarnk
Przemysław Czarnk was presented as PiS’s candidate for prime minister at a party convention in Krakow. He previously served as Minister of Education and Science from 2020-2023 under Mateusz Morawiecki’s government.
The selection of Czarnk is seen as an attempt to appeal to a more conservative electorate that has been shifting towards the Confederation and Korona Polska parties.
Morawiecki’s Position Within PiS
Jarosław Kaczyński stated that the party’s core electorate is on the right, where the former prime minister is not popular. Despite acknowledging an unfair criticism campaign against Morawiecki, Kaczyński suggested he remains unacceptable to some on the right.
Morawiecki Building a Separate Base
Morawiecki is reportedly building a more moderate wing within PiS, advocating for pragmatic policies and caution regarding certain right-wing proposals. He recently announced the formation of an association for those dissatisfied with the current right-wing landscape.
Internal Tensions Within PiS
Despite official reassurances, reports suggest Morawiecki is being “pushed out” of PiS. Recent conflicts within the party escalated after the suspension of Krzysztof Szczucki, whom Morawiecki supported and planned to hold a joint event with, reportedly displeasing party leadership.
Demographic Breakdown of Preferences
SW Research data indicates younger respondents (under 24) and those with basic vocational education more frequently favored Morawiecki, while support decreased with higher income. Czarnk received stronger support among men (18.6%) compared to women (8.5%).
Ongoing Investigation Involving Czarnk
The investigation into the “Villa Plus” program involving Czarnk has been extended to August 8, 2026, and the former minister has not yet been questioned.
