Will ‘Hungary’s Trump’ get another term? 5 key things about Europe's most significant election of 2026

Key Highlights

• REUTERS/Bernadett Szabo/File PhotoThe political landscape of Europe is bracing for a seismic shift as Hungary prepares for its most consequential election since the fall of Communism.
• Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, often dubbed “Hungary’s Trump” for his populist rhetoric and “America First” style of nationalism, is facing an unprecedented threat to his 16-year reign. According to a report by Politico, Péter Magyar, a former Fidesz insider turned conservative firebrand, is Orban’s main contender.
• With the election set for April 12, 2026, Magyar’s Tisza party is currently surging, holding a commanding lead in the polls.
• As Orbán fights to preserve his “illiberal democracy,” here are the five key questions breaking down the race. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD1.
• Why does it matter?While Hungary is a nation of only 9.6 million people, its influence on global and European geopolitics is massive.