Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Hungary's opposition widens lead ahead of April election
Hungary is getting ready for an important election on April 12.
The current prime minister, Viktor Orban, who has been in power for 14 years, is facing a strong challenge from Peter Magyar, who leads the Tisza party.
Recent polls show that Magyar's party is ahead of Orban's Fidesz party by quite a bit.
This election is really important not just for Hungary, but also for Europe, because it could change who is in charge and how Hungary works with other countries.
Magyar wants to keep Hungary close to the European Union and NATO, while Orban has different ideas and has been friends with Russia.
The outcome of this election could have big effects on Hungary's future.
Hungary's main opposition Tisza party has widened its lead over Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party ahead of the April 12 election.
Tisza, led by Peter Magyar, has a 12-point lead over Fidesz in a recent Median poll, with 51% support among decided voters.
Fidesz's support has dropped to 39% in the same poll, conducted between January 7 and 13.
A second poll by Idea Institute shows Tisza with 48% support, 10 points ahead of Fidesz.
The election outcome could have significant implications for Hungary's relationship with the EU, NATO, and Russia.
- Who
- Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and opposition leader Peter Magyar
- What
- Parliamentary election date set for April 12, with opposition leading in polls
- When
- April 12
- Where
- Hungary
- Why
- To elect new members of the Hungarian Parliament and determine the country's political direction
- Election Date
- April 12
- Incumbent Prime Minister
- Viktor Orban
- Opposition Challenger
- Peter Magyar
- Opposition Party
- Tisza (centre-right)
- Incumbent in Power Since
- 2010
- Opposition Party Support (Median)
- 51%
- Fidesz Support (Median)
- 39%
- Opposition Party Support (Idea Institute)
- 48%
- Fidesz Support (Idea Institute)
- 38%