Former president Rumen Radev leads in Bulgarian parliamentary elections

Bulgarians went to the polls on April 19, 2026, for their eighth parliamentary election in five years. Preliminary exit polls show that the 'Progressive Bulgaria' coalition, led by former President Rumen Radev, has emerged as the clear winner. Sources report conflicting data, with some estimates placing Radev's coalition near 45%, while others suggest between 37% and 39%. Radev, a former fighter pilot who resigned from the presidency in January, advocated for political stability and a shift toward closer relations with Moscow. The center-right GERB party of former Prime Minister Boyko Borisov and the 'We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria' coalition hold roughly 12% to 16% of the vote. Depending on the final count, Radev may fall short of an absolute majority, forcing potential coalition negotiations. Voter turnout was reported between 43% and over 50% across different regions.