HUNGARY, April 15, 2026

Péter Magyar, the leader of the Tisza Party, has won the Hungarian election, ending Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule. Magyar's victory marks a significant shift in Hungarian politics, with his party securing a two-thirds majority in parliament. According to Magyar, his first steps will be to "tear down the Orbán system" and make Hungary a "normal, respected country" in Europe again.

Magyar's Campaign and Victory

Magyar's campaign focused on restoring the rule of law and promoting European values. He attracted a cross-section of public support, sweeping the ruling Fidesz party from power. Magyar broke with Orbán's party in March 2024, citing concerns over corruption and Hungary's growing distance from European institutions. "Every Hungarian deserves a public service media that broadcasts the truth," he told Kossuth radio, explaining he was not after personal revenge, even though he and his family had been insulted "morning, noon and night". Magyar said this to reassure the public that his goal was to promote press freedom, not to seek revenge against his opponents.

International Reactions and Expectations

US President Donald Trump said Magyar was a "good man", having actively campaigned for Orbán. "I think the new man's going to do a good job," Trump told ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl, having previously called on Hungarians to "get out and vote" for his friend and close ally, Orbán. Trump said this to signal his support for Magyar and to emphasize his confidence in Magyar's ability to lead Hungary. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said there was "swift work to be done to... restore the rule of law. Realign with our shared European values". Von der Leyen said this to emphasize the need for Hungary to align with European values and to restore the rule of law, which had been eroded under Orbán's rule.

Magyar's Policy Agenda

Magyar has promised to restore the system of checks and balances and to make Hungary a democratic state governed by the rule of law once again. He wants to have a new constitution passed, which will contain mechanisms to restrict power, such as limiting the number of terms a prime minister can serve. Magyar also intends to reform the country's electoral law, which was tailored to meet the needs of Orbán's Fidesz party, and to reverse the extreme centralization of the state. "The work begins. Let's reorganise ourselves and keep fighting for the Hungarian people!" Magyar posted on Facebook, making clear he intended to rebuild his party. Magyar said this to rally his supporters and to signal his commitment to continuing the fight for Hungarian interests.

Economic and Diplomatic Implications

Hungary's economy has been languishing for some time, and Magyar's victory is expected to have significant economic and diplomatic implications. The European Union has been critical of Orbán's government, and Magyar's victory may lead to improved relations between Hungary and the EU. Magyar has called on Orbán to lift his veto on the €90 billion loan for Ukraine, which was blocked due to a dispute over the Druzhba pipeline. Magyar's ability to navigate these complex issues will be essential in determining the success of his government.