Orbán and Magyar cast ballots as Hungary votes

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Magyar Péter, the prime ministerial candidate and party leader of the Tisza Party, both cast their votes on Sunday as Hungary holds its parliamentary election.

Orbán: the question is how democratic government should work

Asked whether the 2026 election is as decisive as the 1990 transition-era vote, Orbán said it is similarly significant, but for different reasons. He argued that “now there is democracy”, and the key issue, in his words, is how democratic government should function.

Orbán also warned that Europe is facing “a major crisis — or several that add up”, saying it is difficult for any nation to find the right answers to upcoming challenges. He stressed that national unity is needed to withstand what he described as an energy, financial and economic crisis.

Reflecting on the campaign, the prime minister said he enjoys campaigning and valued meeting voters he would not otherwise have had the chance to speak with. He thanked Hungarian voters for engaging with him and listening to his arguments.

Speaking about political rivals, Orbán added that his side “does not underestimate anyone”.

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Magyar Péter: ‘a change of era’ will happen in Hungary today

After voting in Budapest’s 12th district at the Hegyvidéki Mesevár Kindergarten, Magyar Péter said that “a change of era will happen in Hungary” on Sunday, adding that “millions of Hungarians are writing history”.

He claimed there is “no longer anyone to fear”, saying what he called a “mafia state” no longer has power over Hungarian citizens.

Magyar framed the election as a choice between “East or West, propaganda or honest public discourse, corruption or clean public life”. He described early turnout figures as encouraging and said they show voters understand the weight of the election. Magyar urged everyone to use their right to vote, adding that Hungary’s future would be decided “for a very long time” based on Sunday’s outcome.

UPDATE

Magyar: cap PM term to two cycles, suspend public media news – Hungary election 2026 today

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