The perfect storm: political alienation, ideological resonance, and the role of influencers in the 2024 Romanian parliamentary elections

This article analyzes the unexpected success of populist radical-right (PRR) parties in Romania's 2024 parliamentary elections. Using survey data from December 2024 and earlier points, it finds that low trust and dissatisfaction fueled PRR support—but mainly among voters already aligned with PRR views, including anti-Western sentiment, irredentism, and populist victimhood. As these attitudes remained stable, the surge is attributed to frustration over COVID-19 management, war fatigue, and disruptive campaign dynamics. The latter included a Russian-backed TikTok campaign and Orthodox priest endorsements, which amplified existing grievances and helped transform discontent into significant electoral gains for PRR parties.