One notable aspect of the current election campaign in Hungary is the prominence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in posters from Orbán’s Fidesz party. These advertisements claim a link between Zelenskyy and opposition figure Péter Márki-Zay, calling on voters to reject them. Such posters are widespread in Budapest and visible along routes to other areas, matching the number featuring Orbán himself. The situation in Ukraine has dominated discussions, with Orbán portraying himself as the candidate for peace, warning against supposed European Union plots to involve Hungary in a war with Russia. This messaging has intensified recently.
A reporter traveling on the Intercity Tokaj train to Hatvan anticipates an event with opposition leader Péter Márki-Zay around 1 p.m. local time. In the 2022 election, Fidesz candidate Zsolt Szabó secured a strong victory in this district with more than 50% of the votes, making it a challenging area for opponents. However, Márki-Zay has drawn large crowds at recent gatherings, raising curiosity about today’s turnout. As the election draws near, his tour heads eastward to Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city, where he will conclude activities tomorrow evening.
In Brussels, Members of the European Parliament are pressing the European Commission to examine possible Russian influence, journalist harassment, and voter pressure by the governing party in Hungary’s elections. With voting set for Sunday, potentially ending Orbán’s 16-year tenure, a cross-party group of MEPs has contacted Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the rule-of-law commissioner, requesting an immediate review. They seek evaluation before and after the election on issues like misinformation, external interference, misuse of public funds, threats to media, and disruptions to opposition efforts. This request follows the Commission’s call for clarification from Hungary regarding a leaked audio suggesting the foreign minister secretly assisted his Russian counterpart.
In Budapest, it’s worth noting that while former U.S. President Donald Trump has posted about the election, his vice-presidential running mate, JD Vance, previously criticized foreign meddling in Hungarian politics during a visit, calling it unacceptable. Overnight, Trump reiterated his support for Orbán, encouraging Hungarians to vote for him and pledging full backing. This follows prior involvement, including a phone call from Vance during a rally and a video endorsement from Trump. In a social media message, Trump praised Orbán as a robust leader focused on protecting Hungary, boosting the economy, generating employment, enhancing trade, curbing unauthorized immigration, and maintaining security. He highlighted improved U.S.-Hungary ties during his presidency and expressed eagerness for future collaboration. Trump endorsed Orbán in 2022 and does so again for the April 12, 2026, election, urging voters to support him as a reliable ally.
Interviews with Budapest residents at Jászai Mari Square this morning revealed the election’s pervasive presence in daily life, including family discussions. Many were heading to work but paused to discuss Sunday’s vote. Some hesitated to reveal their specific party preferences.
