US Edition
Bulgaria's pro-Russian former president takes strong lead in election, exit polls show
The coalition took 39.2% support in an exit poll, but analysts said it may still need partners to govern.
- On Sunday, April 19, 2026, an exit poll showed the Progressive Bulgaria coalition, led by former President Rumen Radev, winning 39.2% of the vote, ahead of the center-right GERB party led by Boyko Borissov, which captured 15.1%.
- Bulgaria's eighth parliamentary election in five years, this snap vote follows the resignation of a conservative-led government amid December's nationwide protests that drew hundreds of thousands of mainly young people.
- Radev, a 62-year-old former fighter pilot, resigned from the presidency in January to pursue the premiership, campaigning to "remove the corrupt, oligarchic model of governance from political power."
- Despite the lead, Radev faces an uphill task forming a government, as the coalition lacks a parliamentary majority while Trend research group exit polling indicates six parties may pass the 4% threshold.
- Radev's supporters remain divided between those seeking anti-corruption reforms and those backing his pro-Russian views, complicating Bulgaria's foreign policy alignment within Europe as the new government takes shape.
134 Articles
134 Articles
Times of India
The Economic TimesBulgaria's pro-Russian former president Rumen Radev set for landslide election win, exit polls show
Bulgaria's election shows a strong win for former President Rumen Radev. Exit polls indicate a significant victory for his party. This outcome could end years of weak governments. Radev's win may alter Bulgaria's foreign policy. Voters are frustrated with corruption and political instability. Final results are expected soon.
In the early parliamentary election in Bulgaria, there is a clear victory for the centre-left alliance of former President Radev. According to an initial extrapolation, his Progressive Bulgaria alliance can expect up to 43 percent of the votes.
Bulgaria's former president tops parliamentary vote
Bulgarian ex-president Rumen Radev -- an EU critic who has called for renewing ties with Russia -- on Sunday hailed a "victory of hope" after his formation topped the eighth parliamentary elections in five years.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
