The first result of its kind since Viktor Orbán came to power Viktor Orbán’s party, Fidesz, which has been ruling Hungary since 2010, has, for the first time in 14 years, been overtaken in a poll, Reuters reports.

According to a survey published by the think tank Publicus Institute, support for the Tisza party has reached 39%, while 37% of respondents expressed their intention to vote for Fidesz. This is the second recent poll showing a „shift” in the lead. Fidesz has usually dominated in polls, with the last significant challenge occurring in 2022 when it competed against a united opposition list.

Other surveys indicate a slight lead for Fidesz, but the difference is narrow. Analysts note, however, that in all polls, the number of undecided voters is significant, reaching around 30%.

Péter Magyar is a former member of Fidesz and also collaborated with Viktor Orbán’s government. He entered independent politics in February 2024 in protest against the dismissal of President Katalin Novák and Justice Minister Judit Varga (his wife) following revelations about the pardon of a deputy director of an orphanage convicted of covering up pedophilia crimes. Magyar argued that both women were scapegoats and that the government leadership was responsible for the situation.

In June 2024, Magyar joined the Respect and Freedom Party (TISZA) and ran on its list for the European Parliament. The party finished second (behind Fidesz), securing seven MEPs, including Magyar himself, who then became its leader.

Tisza is considered a center-right party. At rallies, Magyar refers to Orbán’s state as a „mafia country” and promises to root out corruption and invest in healthcare, education, and environmental protection.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Tisza, like Fidesz, opposes actions such as sending weapons to the defending country.