Hungarian Voters End 16 Straight Years Of Orban's Far-Right Rule

Domestic and international critics have long accused Orbán of systematically eroding Hungary's democratic institutions, tightening his grip over the country's political system, and consolidating control over much of the media to strengthen Fidesz's rule.

After serving a single term as prime minister from 1998-2002, Orbán was elected again in 2010 and served four consecutive terms, thanks to passage by Fidesz-led lawmakers of the so-called“Fundamental Law” and other illiberal measures.

Human rights deteriorated markedly during Orbán's tenure, especially for LGBTQ + people, migrants, women, and Roma. The European Union has withheld billions of dollars in funding in response.

EU leaders have condemned Orbán's rule, calling his government a“hybrid regime of electoral autocracy.” Orbán describes it as“illiberal democracy,” while touting its universal appeal to international conservatives, including US President Donald Trump.

European leaders also bristled at Orban's warm personal relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, although the Hungarian leader did condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine and voted along with the rest of the 27-nation EU to impose economic sanctions on Moscow.

Russia is accused of trying to influence the outcome of the election in favor of Fidesz via a coordinated online disinformation campaign. At a massive election eve rally and concert in Budapest, thousands of attendees chanted in unison,“Russians go home!”

Trump and senior members of his administration had openly backed Orbán, with the president promising “to use the full economic might of the United States to strengthen Hungary's economy” if the prime minister was reelected.

US Vice President JD Vance traveled to Budapest last week to campaign for Orbán. While decrying what he called“disgraceful” interference by the EU – of which Hungary is a member – Vance added that he wanted to“help as much as I can possibly help” to secure Orbán's reelection.

Orbán has also accused Ukraine of election interference, although he has provided no evidence supporting his claim.

Responding to alleged foreign meddling, Magyar said on social media that“this is our country.”

“Hungarian history is not written in Washington, Moscow, or Brussels – it is written in Hungary's streets and squares,” he insisted.

Numerous world leaders congratulated Magyar.