How much sway does Trump have over Hungarian voters?

US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, yet the impact of this support on the country’s impending elections is uncertain. The European far-right, which has faced challenges due to Trump’s recent criticisms of EU policies, may see mixed results from his backing. Ahead of the national vote, Trump urged voters to “Get out and vote for Viktor Orban” in all caps on his Truth Social platform, highlighting his commitment to the Hungarian leader during the final phase of campaigning.

Orban’s Ideological Alignment with Trump

Viktor Orban, currently leading Hungary, has positioned himself as a key figure in the global far-right movement. His government has limited European aid to Ukraine and openly questioned the EU’s policies, while simultaneously strengthening ties with the US. Orban has adopted the “MAGA there, MEGA here” slogan, mirroring Trump’s “Make America Great Again” to frame himself as a European counterpart to the American conservative leader.

“Make Europe great again!” Orban declared, echoing Trump’s campaign rallying cry. This phrase has become a symbol of his efforts to build a transnational far-right coalition, emphasizing shared goals against immigration and liberal governance.

Trump’s Strategy and Its Limits

The Trump administration’s 2025 national security strategy highlighted concerns over “civilizational erasure” in Europe and criticized the EU for undermining political sovereignty. It also pointed to migration as a central threat to the continent. Experts suggest that Trump’s support for Orban should be viewed within this broader framework. Historian Timothy Snyder noted that Orban is “central to Trumpism, more important than almost any American” in the MAGA movement.

However, some analysts remain skeptical. Zsuzsanna Vegh, a political analyst at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, argued that Trump’s endorsement, while significant, may not sway undecided voters. “Vance’s visit and Trump’s backing might mobilize existing supporters but are unlikely to change the minds of those prioritizing economic issues,” she said, adding that the opposition has maintained a substantial lead in most polls.

Political Dynamics and Future Implications

With the election set for this Sunday, voters will determine Orban’s political future. The outcome could reveal whether his partnership with Trump has strengthened the far-right’s position in Europe or exposed vulnerabilities in the movement. “If Orban loses, it exposes the weaknesses of MAGA,” Snyder wrote, suggesting the alliance’s strength depends on his success.

Recent events, such as the June presidential election in Poland, where a pro-Trump candidate narrowly won, underscore the growing influence of US-backed far-right groups. The meeting between Trump and this candidate, supported by Poland’s Law and Justice party, signals a broader trend of transnational alignment. Yet, the question remains: can such support translate into a decisive shift in Hungary’s electoral landscape?