After 16 years in power, Putin's closest friend in Europe faces a pivotal election

Few leaders have done more than Hungary’s Viktor Orbán to shape the global right-wing populism that informed President Donald Trump’s MAGA project.

BUDAPEST, Hungary — Few leaders have done more than Hungary’s Viktor Orbán to shape the global right-wing populism that informed President Donald Trump’s MAGA project.

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On Sunday, Orbán faces the biggest challenge of his 16-year authoritarian rule as Hungary goes to the polls for a parliamentary election. There were early signs of record turnout hours after polls opened, according to the National Election Office.

It has been a febrile campaign, with allegations of “false flag” operations, wiretapping and even an alleged sex tape plot.