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Bulgaria's pro-Russian former president takes strong lead in election, exit polls show

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on April 19, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: April 20, 2026

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Bulgaria's pro-Russian former president takes strong lead in election, exit polls show
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SOFIA, April 19 (Reuters) - Progressive Bulgaria, the party of Bulgaria's pro-Russian former president Rumen Radev was seen leading in Sunday's parliamentary election with 37.5% of the votes, the

Pro-Russian Former Bulgarian President Radev Leads Election with 37.5%

Bulgarian Parliamentary Election Results

Exit Poll Overview

Progressive Bulgaria's Performance

Alpha Research Exit Poll Findings

SOFIA, April 19 (Reuters) - Progressive Bulgaria, the party of Bulgaria's pro-Russian former president Rumen Radev was seen leading in Sunday's parliamentary election with 37.5% of the votes, the Alpha Research exit poll showed. 

(Reporting by Ivana Sekularac)

Key Takeaways

  • Radev’s Progressive Bulgaria is far ahead of main rival GERB, capitalizing on public frustration with repeated elections and oligarchic politics
  • Turnout is surging—polls expect around 60%, nearly double that of 2024—boosted by efforts to curb vote‑buying and Radev’s mobilizing appeal
  • Despite the commanding lead, Progressive Bulgaria likely falls short of a majority and will need coalition partners to form a government

Frequently Asked Questions

Which party does former president Rumen Radev represent?
Rumen Radev represents the party Progressive Bulgaria.

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