American Vice President JD Vance openly voiced support for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán shortly before the Hungarian elections, while accusing the European Union of interference.
JD Vance traveled to Budapest a few days before the elections and actively participated in the campaign. During meetings, he urged voters to support Orbán and clearly spoke out in his favor.
Interference
In several speeches, Vance accused the European Union of interfering in the Hungarian elections. He called this a serious example of foreign influence and stated that forces in Brussels are trying to prevent Orbán's re-election.
Promotion
At the same time, Vance rejected criticism of his own role. He denied that his presence and statements constitute foreign interference, despite his visible involvement in the election campaign.
Change of Power
The elections are described in multiple sources as tense and potentially decisive for Orbán’s political future. After years in power, he is reportedly under significant pressure from the opposition according to polls.
Recent opinion polls show Orbán losing ground. In several forecasts, his party trails behind the opposition, indicating a possible change of power following the elections.
Peter Magyar
His main opponent is Péter Magyar, a former ally of Orbán. He presents himself as an alternative and emphasizes different political choices and a different direction for the country in his campaign.
The war in Ukraine plays a central role in the campaign. Both Orbán and Vance frequently refer to the conflict and its consequences for Hungary, especially in terms of energy and the economy.
Ukraine
Vance also sharply criticized European leaders, claiming they are insufficiently committed to peace negotiations. At the same time, he praised Orbán as an important player in efforts to end the conflict.
His statements led to international reactions. Support for his criticism came from Russia, while European governments rejected the accusations of interference and questioned his conduct in Hungary.