A new poll indicates the Tisza party leads Hungary’s Fidesz by 23 percentage points ahead of April 12th parliamentary elections, raising opposition hopes.
Tisza’s Growing Lead
A Median poll commissioned by HVG weekly shows the Tisza party solidifying its lead before the Hungarian parliamentary elections. Among voters certain of their choice, Peter Magyar’s party commands 58% support, while Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz secures 35%.
This marks a 23-point increase in Tisza’s advantage over the ruling party, up from 20 points a month prior. The survey was conducted between March 17th and 20th.
Overall Support and Potential Majority
Across all eligible voters, Tisza is supported by 46% of respondents, and Fidesz by 30%.
If these poll results translate into election outcomes on April 12th, Magyar’s party could achieve a two-thirds majority in parliament. Some reports suggest 36% of Hungarians still believe Fidesz will win despite lower poll numbers.
Allegations of Russian Interference
The campaign has been further complicated by reports of potential Russian influence and leaks. European intelligence services reportedly suggested Russian special services offered to stage a fake assassination attempt on Viktor Orbán to boost his public support, mirroring a similar situation with Donald Trump’s campaign in the United States.
Reports indicate that Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto allegedly passed information about EU discussions to the Russian side, according to “The Washington Post.”
International Reactions
Brussels has requested clarification from the Hungarian government regarding the alleged leaks. European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper described the reports as “very concerning.”
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented that the alleged information sharing by Orbán’s allies with Moscow was not surprising, stating it confirmed long-held suspicions. The Hungarian government has dismissed the reports as false, with Szijjarto accusing Tusk and the Polish Foreign Minister of spreading lies.
Political Alignments and Events
Budapest recently hosted a “Patriots for Europe” gathering, where Eurosceptic politicians criticized Brussels and alleged infringements on national sovereignty. Polish Sejm Vice-Marshal Krzysztof Bosak attended the event.
Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán also received a visit from Polish President Karol Nawrocki, a move criticized by some as an endorsement of Orbán’s campaign.