US Vice President JD Vance Visits Hungary to Support Prime Minister Viktor Orban Ahead of Election

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — US Vice President JD Vance visited Budapest for two days, speaking at an election rally on Tuesday alongside Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The event, attended by over 1,000 supporters, took place at a sports arena. Vance encouraged the crowd to support Orban in the upcoming parliamentary election scheduled for Sunday, April 12.

Vance described Orban as a defender of Western civilization during his speech. " The rally was organized as a "Day of Friendship" event. Orban, who has served as prime minister since 2010, is seeking a fifth consecutive term.

His Fidesz party faces opposition from the center-right Tisza party, led by Peter Magyar. Independent polls indicate Fidesz is behind Tisza by a double-digit margin among decided voters.

Election Hungary's parliamentary election will determine the composition of the National Assembly and the next government.

Orban's administration has maintained close ties with former US President Donald Trump. The US administration's involvement marks a departure from the typical non-interference by foreign leaders in other countries' elections. Orban has criticized expressions of support for his opponents from European Union partners as interference in Hungary's sovereignty.

EU leaders have accused Orban of using Hungary's veto power to block decisions, including a 90-billion euro ($104 billion) loan to Ukraine last month. This action has strained relations within the 27-member bloc. During the rally, Vance praised Orban's policies on immigration and his stance toward the EU.

Vance also discussed concerns about progressivism, bureaucrats, and censorship. He used his phone to call Trump from the lectern, connecting after an initial automated message.

spoke to the crowd via the microphone during the call.

" Trump added that Orban had prevented migrants from entering Hungary and had protected Hungarian citizens. Vance concluded his remarks by urging attendees to vote, saying, "Will you stand for Western civilization? Will you stand for freedom, for truth, and for the God of our fathers?

Then, my friends, go to the polls in the weekend. " The election outcome could affect Hungary's role in the EU and its foreign policy alignments. A Tisza victory would end Fidesz's 16-year hold on power.

Results are expected shortly after polls close on April 12.