Sorin Grindeanu Elected President of Romania's Social Democratic Party

Grindeanu Secures Leadership of PSD

Sorin Grindeanu was officially elected president of Romania's ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD) on Friday, November 7, 2025. The election took place during an extraordinary congress held in Bucharest at Romexpo. Grindeanu, who ran as the sole candidate, received an overwhelming majority of 2,787 votes in favor, with 15 votes against and 8 abstentions out of a total of 2,810 votes cast.

His election formalizes a position he had held on an interim basis since Marcel Ciolacu's resignation in May.

Vision for a 'Stronger, More Confident PSD'

In his address to the congress, Grindeanu articulated a vision for the party, calling for 'a stronger, more confident PSD'. He expressed his desire for the party to 'set the tone' in Romanian politics rather than merely reacting to external attacks. Grindeanu underscored the importance of the PSD continuing to formulate public policies beneficial to Romanians, stressing a reliance on the party's established traditions and values. He concluded his remarks with a call for unity, asserting that a strong future for Romanians could only be built 'together'.

Key Amendments to Party Statute and New Leadership

The extraordinary congress also saw the approval of significant amendments to the PSD's statute. These changes include an expansion of the party's top leadership structure, now featuring five first vice-presidents and 20 vice-presidents. A notable ideological shift was also enacted, with party members voting to remove the phrase 'progressive party' from the statute. Instead, the PSD has pledged to promote 'national, religious, and traditional values', signaling a more conservative orientation compared to some other European social democratic parties.

Grindeanu's proposed leadership team was also validated during the congress. The new first vice-presidents include Bogdan Ivan, Victor Negrescu, Marius Oprescu, Ionut Pucheanu, and Corneliu Stefan. Additionally, Claudiu Manda was appointed as the new secretary general of the party.

Grindeanu's Extensive Political Background

Sorin Grindeanu brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A member of the PSD since 1996, he has held numerous high-profile positions within the Romanian government. His past roles include serving as Prime Minister of Romania from January to June 2017. He has also served as Deputy Prime Minister since November 2021 and as Minister of Transport and Infrastructure since November 2021. Earlier in his career, Grindeanu was the Minister for Communications from 2014 to 2015.