JD Vance defends backing ‘great guy’ Orbán’s campaign after landslide defeat

JD Vance Defends Support for Orbán Amid Tisza’s Victory

Five days prior to the opposition party Tisza’s overwhelming electoral triumph, US Vice-President JD Vance defended his decision to visit Hungary and endorse Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s campaign. Despite the landslide defeat, Vance remained steadfast in his assessment, highlighting Orbán’s effectiveness and personal qualities.

Orbán’s Legacy and Vance’s Stance

Vance expressed admiration for Orbán, calling him a “great guy” who had “done a very good job.” He emphasized Orbán’s role as a leader willing to challenge the bureaucracy in Brussels, a trait he believes is rare among European figures. Although Orbán lost, Vance remained optimistic about the future collaboration between the US and the new administration.

“One of the few European leaders we’ve seen who’s been willing to stand up to the bureaucracy in Brussels,” Vance remarked during a Fox News appearance.

Péter Magyar, the leader of Tisza, had initially criticized Vance’s involvement, warning against foreign interference in Hungarian elections. However, he later acknowledged the US as a “strong and important” NATO ally, expressing openness to dialogue if called upon.

Transition and Political Reforms

Orbán will serve as Hungary’s interim leader until Magyar’s formal inauguration. The three parliamentary leaders have been invited to meet President Tamás Sulyok on Wednesday, who is tasked with assembling the new parliament and recommending a successor by 12 May. Magyar urged Sulyok to act swiftly and resign, labeling him a “puppet” of the previous regime.

Magyar also plans to address state media independence, proposing a board to ensure unbiased coverage, akin to the BBC model. His party’s “super majority” of 137 seats, based on preliminary results, grants significant power to implement constitutional changes and reverse policies from Orbán’s era.

EU Funding and Corruption Measures

Magyar outlined his priorities, including reviving suspended EU funds and loans. An estimated €17bn has been frozen due to concerns over rule of law and democratic backsliding under Orbán. Additional €16bn in defense loans awaits approval. He also aims to establish an Anti-Corruption Office and a National Asset Recovery and Protection Office, as well as align with the EU’s European Public Prosecutor’s Office.

“Hungary is the poorest and most corrupt member of the European Union,” Magyar stated, vowing to tackle systemic issues like cronyism that allowed favored individuals to secure public contracts.

Orbán’s government was known for its cronyism, with billions disappearing from state contracts and widespread corruption. Magyar claimed the country had been “robbed bare,” emphasizing the need for urgent reforms.

Ukraine Aid and International Relations

EU leaders are pushing for Hungary to lift a veto on €90bn in Ukraine aid, imposed by Orbán in the weeks before the election. Magyar dismissed the veto’s significance, noting Hungary was one of three nations that opted out of the loan last December. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz reiterated the importance of swift aid release, having met with Magyar in Munich earlier this year. The new leader plans to prioritize visits to Berlin and other key international partners.