Pro-Trump Supporter George Simion Aims to Become Romania's Next President
Down a staircase by a Lebanese eatery, we find ourselves idling through a private dining room. A hoodie-wearing man beckons, introducing himself as George Simion - a 38-year-old on the brink of exceptional political power.
He's the populist firebrand locking horns with the mayor of Bucharest, Nicusor Dan, in a race for Romania's presidency - an unconventional duel pitting the radical against the centrist.
Simion chuckles, promising he'll ditch the casual gear for a suit when he meets Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump - a conversation that takes a decidedly Trumpian turn as we discuss leadership.
He credits Trump for "telling it like it is," and for his unwavering commitment to his nation's interests. Frustrated by politically correct elites who he believes undermine personal freedoms, Simion champions free speech and fair elections as key political battlegrounds.
This election is unexpected, to say the least. The original presidential election was nullified, after the country's court decertified the leading candidate, nationalist Calin Georgescu, due to allegations of Russian electoral interference. Simion might benefit from this, but he's also been one of the fiercest critics of the decision - denouncing the "deep state" for sabotaging democracy.
He believes the move failed to sway the Romanian people, who are growing increasingly dissatisfied with the country's leadership. As for Georgescu, there's even speculation about a potential role in Simion's government - despite Georgescu's denial of the existence of COVID and his accusations of a global conspiracy peddled by George Soros.
When asked whether Georgescu might be his prime minister, Simion hesitates but ultimately suggests it's possible, if they secure a resounding electoral victory, and if Georgescu wants the job.
He boasts he couldn't be bought, even with "lots and lots of cash."
Simion talks tough on Ukraine, promising to follow in Trump's footsteps, while dismissing any friendly overtures towards Russia - a nation he believes has left unpleasant memories and lingering scars for Romania.
Off-topic, Simion expresses regret over Brexit, although he admits he can relate to Britain's leaving the EU - even going so far as to make friendly overtures to the British people, encouraging cooperation in the face of their shared history and heritage.
Before we part, Simion shares a confident prediction - a landslide victory by a minimum of 60% of the vote. With his cocky demeanor and unyielding self-assurance, one might doubt him. But with parliamentary elections looming just a week after the presidential election, Simion seems intent on making good on his promises to reshape Romania's political landscape.
Additional Insights:* George Simion and Radical Ideologies: Simion's political ideology echoes populist, radical, and nationalist sentiments, often revolving around moral purity, the protection of the nation, and sharp criticism of the established political order. However, these ideologies can lead to divisive political climates that provoke fear and hostility, undermining democratic values.* Historical Connection between Romania and Britain: Britain (and the United Kingdom) played a significant role in Romania's history, particularly during World War II when the UK supported Romania's resistance against the Nazi occupation. The two nations' shared history explains why Simion expresses a desire for stronger ties and cooperation, even as the UK moves toward a more isolationist stance.
- In defiance of the allegations of Russian electoral interference, George Simion, the controversial populist candidate for Romania's presidency, asserts his belief that the deep state is sabotaging democracy.
- Despite denying the existence of COVID and his accusing George Soros of global conspiracy, nationalist Calin Georgescu, the nullified leading presidential candidate, may find a role in Simion's potential government, if they secure a decisive electoral victory.
- Amidst the charged war-and-conflicts of modern politics, Simion advocates for zero-tolerance towards electoral interferences, suggesting the need for fair and free elections to uphold democratic values.
- Recognizing the impact of war-and-conflicts on society, Simion expresses regret over Brexit, but extends a friendly hand to the British people, as they both navigate the challenges of migration and new political landscapes, drawing from shared history and heritage.
