JD Vance Defends Support for Orbán Despite Electoral Defeat

Following a decisive electoral victory by Hungary’s opposition Tisza party, US Vice-President JD Vance has reaffirmed his decision to support Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s campaign five days prior to the election. Vance described Orbán as a “great guy” who “did a very good job,” emphasizing his admiration for the leader’s ability to resist Brussels bureaucracy. He stated that Orbán was one of the few European leaders willing to challenge the EU’s administrative structures.

Vance acknowledged Orbán’s loss but expressed confidence in the potential for collaboration with the incoming government. While the Hungarian leader’s tenure ended with the election, he will continue in a caretaker role until the new administration is formally sworn in. The three main opposition party leaders have been invited to meet President Tamás Sulyok on Wednesday, as he prepares to convene Hungary’s new parliament and recommend a successor by 12 May.

Magyar’s Vision for Change

Péter Magyar, Tisza’s leader, criticized Vance’s intervention, stating that “no foreign country may interfere in Hungarian elections.” However, he later softened his stance, calling the US a “strong and important” NATO ally and indicating openness to dialogue if contacted by Trump or others. Magyar has outlined several goals, including establishing an Anti-Corruption Office and launching efforts to join the EU’s European Public Prosecutor’s Office.

“Hungary has been robbed bare, with billions missing from state contracts and corruption on an industrial scale,” Magyar declared, highlighting the country’s economic and legal challenges. He also pledged to ensure unbiased media coverage, suggesting a board to maintain independence in public broadcasting, akin to the BBC’s model.

Magyar’s party secured a “super majority” of 137 seats, according to preliminary results. Though not finalized, he believes the margin will widen further. This majority grants the new government constitutional reform powers, enabling it to reverse policies implemented under Orbán’s leadership.

EU Funding and Ukraine Aid

Over €17bn in EU funds and loans have been suspended due to concerns about rule of law and democratic backsliding under Orbán’s rule. Magyar aims to unlock these resources, with an additional €16bn in defense loans pending approval. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Magyar’s efforts, stating that “swift work to be done to restore the rule of law and realign with shared European values” was necessary.

EU leaders are also pushing for Hungary to lift its veto on €90bn in Ukraine aid, imposed weeks before the election. Magyar dismissed the veto as irrelevant, noting Hungary was among three nations that opted out of the loan in December. Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged quick release of the funds, emphasizing the importance of Hungary’s new government aligning with European priorities. Merz met Magyar earlier this year in Munich, and the Hungarian leader plans to visit Berlin soon.