Jan 3, 2022 - Politics & Policy

Trump endorses Hungary’s far-right prime minister for re-election

Yacob Reyes

Former President Donald Trump shakes hands with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on May 13, 2019. — Then-President Donald Trump shakes hands with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on May 13, 2019. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Former President Donald Trump endorsed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for re-election Monday, throwing his "complete support" behind the nationalist leader.

Why it matters: Orbán, a far-right, populist leader who says he's turned Hungry into an "illiberal state," has changed election laws to benefit his party, the New York Times notes.

It is Trump's second endorsement of a world leader since leaving office. Last October, Trump endorsed Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro, another far-right leader accused of authoritarian tendencies.
The Hungarian leader had endorsed Trump in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, according to the New York Times. In May 2019, the former president met with Orbán in the Oval Office.

What he's saying: "Viktor Orbán of Hungary truly loves his Country and wants safety for his people," Trump said in a statement.

"He has done a powerful and wonderful job in protecting Hungary, stopping illegal immigration, creating jobs, trade, and should be allowed to continue to do so in the upcoming Election," he added.
"He is a strong leader and respected by all. He has my Complete support and Endorsement for reelection as Prime Minister."

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Trump endorses Hungary’s far-right prime minister for re-election

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