Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria party leads Bulgarian parliamentary election

Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria party is set to win Bulgaria's parliamentary election held on April 19, 2026.

Exit polls indicate the party secured about 37% of the vote, more than double the 16% garnered by former prime minister Boiko Borisov's GERB party.

This election marks Bulgaria's eighth general election in five years, reflecting ongoing political instability.

The vote was called after the previous government attempted to pass a controversial budget in December 2025, which triggered mass protests supported by President Radev.

Radev, who stepped down as president in January after nine years in office to lead Progressive Bulgaria, campaigned on promises to combat corruption and restore stable governance.

Despite the strong showing, Progressive Bulgaria does not have a sufficient majority to govern alone and is seeking coalition partners.

In his victory speech, Radev thanked voters for rejecting "the self-satisfaction and arrogance of old parties" and pledged to build "a strong Bulgaria in a strong Europe." He emphasized the need for critical thinking, pragmatic actions, and rebuilding industrial competitiveness as Bulgaria's contribution to Europe.

Radev is seen as a pragmatic leader with somewhat pro-Russian views, opposing Bulgarian military support for Ukraine and advocating for dialogue with the Kremlin.

Bulgaria is an important supplier of ammunition and explosives to Ukraine through third countries, especially Romania.

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