TikTok Influencer Scandal Clouds Romania's Upcoming Elections**

As Romania prepares for a re-run of its presidential elections, a scandal involving TikTok influencers and claims of foreign interference raises concerns. The far-right candidate Calin Georgescu's prior victory was annulled amid accusations of artificial support on social media, leaving Romanians questioning the integrity of their elections.**

In Romania, preparations are underway for a crucial presidential election this weekend, following a previous vote's unprecedented cancellation last December that sparked widespread protests and unrest. Central to this political turmoil is the shock annulment of far-right candidate Calin Georgescu's first-round victory, attributed to allegations of Russian meddling and dubious activities by TikTok influencers. Georgescu, now barred from running again, remains in detention amid a criminal investigation aimed at preserving constitutional order—charges he vigorously denies.

Polling has shifted towards George Simion, leader of the far-right AUR party, who is now seen as a frontrunner for the re-run. Behind the scenes, concerns proliferate regarding the role of TikTok influencers accused of orchestrating campaigns that undeservedly elevated Georgescu's profile on the platform.

Georgescu's unexpected rise to nearly 23% of the vote—a notable leap from his initial polling position of 3-5%—has led many to scrutinize how his TikTok presence grew so rapidly. Reports from Expert Forum indicate that his ascent on the platform was not organic but rather engineered through influencer campaigns and inauthentic accounts designed to bolster his image. Authorities claim this strategy mirrored operations attributed to the Russian Federation.

While Moscow has denied involvement, and no verifiable evidence has surfaced to confirm foreign interference, frustration among Romanian citizens is growing. The ongoing investigations by local intelligence and police provide little clarity as the nation heads back to the polls.

Social media campaigns during this election season have been particularly controversial. The hashtag "stability and integrity" was widely used, encouraging citizens to engage with the electoral process but without explicitly endorsing any candidate. Influencers involved remain uncertain about the origins of their paid engagements, with claims suggesting the center-right National Liberal Party covertly sponsored this initiative.

Indicative of the campaign's dubious nature, several influencers did not disclose these engagements, contravening TikTok's rules against political advertising. Reviews by TikTok noted the removal of thousands of inauthentic accounts purportedly employed to sway public opinion in favor of Georgescu.

The saga continues with the arrest of Bogdan Peschir, a TikTok influencer dubbed the "King of TikTok," accused of illegally incentivizing voting behaviors among followers. His financial connections and alleged influence have further muddied the waters, especially as the campaign's broader implications remain entangled in ongoing investigations.

With callouts for transparency amplifying amid the chaos, Romanian citizens seek answers regarding the legitimacy of their electoral processes and the extent of any outside influence. Experts express concerns it may be years before the full implications of the scandal are understood, leaving many Romanians anxious about their democratic future and political representation.