After months of political negotiations and public uncertainty, the date for Bucharest’s City Mayor election has been officially set for December 7, 2025. The governing coalition finally reached consensus, ending speculation and clearing the path for a decisive vote that will shape the capital’s political and administrative direction.
A Fragmented Race with No Clear Favourite
According to the latest national polls, Daniel Băluță, current mayor of District 4 and Social Democratic Party (PSD) candidate, leads the race with around 25% of voter intentions. He faces intense competition from Cătălin Drulă, the Save Romania Union (USR) candidate, and Ciprian Ciucu, mayor of District 6 and National Liberal Party (PNL) representative, both polling close to 18%.
Several independent contenders are also influencing the balance of power. Anca Alexandrescu currently garners around 10%, while Cristian Popescu Piedone, former District 5 mayor, stands at approximately 9%. With no clear alliances formed and all major parties running separate candidates, vote fragmentation is expected to play a key role in the outcome.
Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan emphasised the need to maintain the legal schedule for the election despite internal coalition tensions, calling it essential for political continuity in Romania’s largest city.
Core Issues: Transport, Infrastructure, and Transparency
The upcoming campaign is expected to revolve around Bucharest’s persistent challenges: traffic congestion, ageing infrastructure, budget allocation, and governance transparency. Voters are likely to demand practical solutions to improve the quality of life, while candidates must balance ambitious promises with the city’s limited fiscal capacity.
Public frustration over inefficient administration, uneven development between districts, and poor urban mobility remains high. Whoever wins in December will inherit a complex mandate — one that requires both political stability and administrative competence.
Political Stakes Beyond the Capital
This election comes in a new national context, with former Bucharest mayor Nicușor Dan now serving as President of Romania. As a result, the December vote will act as a barometer for national political realignment, testing both party strategies and public sentiment after Dan’s rise to the presidency.
As campaigns intensify across the city, Bucharest voters are preparing for a crucial decision — one that will determine not only the city’s leadership but also the broader political trajectory of Romania heading into 2026.
