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Outrage Erupts Over Minister's Racist Roma Comments

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Transportation Minister Janos Lazar sparked outrage in Hungary by suggesting Roma should clean toilets instead of hiring foreign workers.
The remarks, made at a campaign event, were condemned as racist and could hurt support for Fidesz.
Lazar apologized, but the backlash continued as Viktor Orban made a Roma joke at the same event.
Analysts say Fidesz needs Roma votes to win the April 12 elections, amid ongoing community discontent.

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Story summary

Transportation Minister Janos Lazar sparked outrage in Hungary by suggesting Roma should clean toilets instead of hiring foreign workers.
The remarks, made at a campaign event, were condemned as racist and could hurt support for Fidesz.
Lazar apologized, but the backlash continued as Viktor Orban made a Roma joke at the same event.
Analysts say Fidesz needs Roma votes to win the April 12 elections, amid ongoing community discontent.