Poland’s 2025 presidential election is poised to be a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, shaping its direction both domestically and within the European Union. While the specific candidates are yet to be definitively known, several potential figures are already being discussed, and the key issues that will define the campaign are beginning to emerge. One of the most closely watched aspects will be the ruling coalition’s choice of candidate. Following the 2023 parliamentary elections, a coalition government consisting of Civic Coalition (KO), Third Way (Trzecia Droga), and The Left (Lewica) took power, ending eight years of Law and Justice (PiS) rule. The performance of this coalition in the lead-up to 2025 will heavily influence the electorate’s perception of their potential candidate. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a prominent figure within KO, has repeatedly stated he has no intention of running for the presidency, opening the field to other possibilities. Potential candidates from the coalition could include figures currently holding high office or those with strong public recognition. On the other side of the political spectrum, Law and Justice, while weakened by their loss in 2023, remains a significant force in Polish politics. Their candidate will likely rally conservative voters and those who feel left behind by the economic and social changes of recent years. The party will need to select a candidate who can unite their base and potentially appeal to undecided voters. Key figures within PiS will undoubtedly be vying for the nomination. Several key issues are expected to dominate the 2025 election. The economy will be a central concern, with inflation, cost of living, and job security at the forefront of voters’ minds. The government’s policies on these issues will be intensely scrutinized, and each candidate will need to present a credible plan for economic stability and growth. Social issues will also play a significant role. Divisions over abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of the Catholic Church in public life remain prominent in Polish society. Candidates’ positions on these issues will be carefully analyzed by voters across the political spectrum. Foreign policy and Poland’s relationship with the European Union will also be crucial. The country’s security concerns, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, will be a major factor. Candidates will be expected to articulate their vision for Poland’s role in NATO and the EU, as well as their approach to relations with neighboring countries. Furthermore, the ongoing dispute with the EU over the rule of law and judicial independence is likely to be a prominent theme, with candidates offering different perspectives on how to navigate these complex issues. Ultimately, the outcome of the 2025 presidential election will depend on a complex interplay of factors, including the strength of the candidates, the salience of key issues, and the overall political climate in Poland. The election will be a closely contested and closely watched event with implications that extend far beyond Poland’s borders.