Hungarian opposition leader Magyar surges ahead of Orban
The opposition leader in Hungary, Peter Magyar, has gained more voter support than the current Prime Minister, Viktor Orban. According to a survey conducted by the Median Institute, Magyar's support has reached 51 percent, while Orban's support stands at 40 percent.
7:34 AM EST, November 12, 2024
As the report published on Monday revealed, Magyar is ahead of Orban by 11 percentage points. The Tisza Party, with which he is affiliated, is increasing its lead over Fidesz, garnering 46 percent support compared to Fidesz's 39 percent.
The survey result is considered "spectacular," noting that Magyar's popularity has increased significantly in just a few months.
It was noted that when Magyar decided to pursue an opposition career at the beginning of the year, he was recognized only among those interested in politics. Currently, over 95 percent of respondents know his name.
Magyar, previously a long-time member of Fidesz, gained popularity after a scandal in February when it was revealed that former President Katalin Novak pardoned a convicted pedophile, a former assistant director of an orphanage. This led to her resignation and the end of the political career of Judit Varga, the former Minister of Justice and Magyar's wife.
Magyar distanced himself from Orban's government in a statement, suggesting that women were being made scapegoats. He soon joined the Party of Respect and Freedom (Tisza), which he currently leads.
The survey was conducted by the Median Institute for the needs of hvg.hu.
