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Radev's Party Secures First Majority in Bulgaria Since 1997

4/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria party won an absolute majority in Bulgaria's parliamentary elections, securing about 44.7% of the vote.
This result is the first outright majority for a single party since 1997.
GERB's support fell to around 13.4%.
Voter turnout exceeded 50%.
The result could reshape Bulgaria's political landscape and its relationship with the EU.

History

Historical Context

Bulgaria's political transformation began in 1997 when the United Democratic Forces won 52% of the vote, ending decades of socialist rule and initiating reforms that strengthened ties with the European Union. The 2023 election saw Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria party secure 44.7%, reflecting a potential shift in governance and policy direction, echoing the significant changes of the late 1990s.

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Story summary

Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria party won an absolute majority in Bulgaria's parliamentary elections, securing about 44.7% of the vote.
This result is the first outright majority for a single party since 1997.
GERB's support fell to around 13.4%.
Voter turnout exceeded 50%.
The result could reshape Bulgaria's political landscape and its relationship with the EU.

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