Romania's political deadlock fuels AUR surge amid coalition instability

Romania is experiencing a prolonged political crisis as the caretaker government of Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan remains in place without a parliamentary majority. Analysts warn that the impasse benefits the far‑right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), which recent polls place at 35‑40 % support.

Political commentator Cristian Pîrvulescu argued that Romania lacks a genuine centre‑left party, leaving a large segment of voters unrepresented and threatening democratic resilience. He noted that all major parties, including the Social Democratic Party (PSD), are shifting rightward, increasing the risk that democracy could erode.

Vlad Gheorghe, an adviser to Bolojan, described AUR as poised to become the dominant force in parliament if early elections are called, emphasizing that the party is “capitalizing on the ongoing scandal” created by the failed coalition. He urged other parties to regain public trust to prevent an extreme‑right takeover.