Romanian TikTok influencers flee amid probe into election interference

Romanian TikTok influencers accused of aiding an ultranationalist, pro-Russian candidate in the country’s annulled presidential election have fled the country. The departure comes as tax officials investigate their alleged involvement in swaying the election.

Authorities allege the influencers received substantial payments to amplify Călin Georgescu’s nationalist rhetoric on TikTok, blending anti-establishment themes with messages of sovereignty and traditional values, Politico reported.

Georgescu, an independent candidate previously little known in Romania, advanced to a runoff election after winning the first round last month. However, widespread allegations of interference, including a TikTok campaign allegedly orchestrated from Russia, led Romania’s Constitutional Court to cancel the election.

Tax authorities began their inquiry following a referral from Romania’s electoral office, which raised concerns over financial transactions tied to the campaign. Investigators are also examining Georgescu, authorities confirmed Monday.

The TikTok influencers— some reportedly linked to organised crime— posted farewell messages on social media, showing land borders and planes, before fleeing Romania. “Farewell” and “missing you” captions accompanied the posts. Their involvement was revealed after President Klaus Iohannis declassified intelligence documents last week, exposing a sophisticated TikTok influence operation that supported Georgescu’s campaign.

Georgescu was set to face centrist rival Elena Lasconi in a runoff on December 8. Instead, Romanian authorities have launched a sweeping investigation into Georgescu’s campaign and its supporters, including financial and criminal probes.

Georgescu, who embraced pro-Russian stances during his campaign, praised his controversial backers, suggesting he might pardon them if elected.

One key figure under investigation is Bogdan Peșchir, accused of financing the TikTok campaign with €1 million. Authorities raided three properties linked to Peșchir last week, seizing $7 million in cryptocurrency.

While some influencers admitted to promoting Georgescu for payment, they claimed they were unaware of his background until after the first round of voting. Georgescu declared zero campaign expenses, but intelligence documents revealed TikTok influencers played a central role in a covert, multi-million-euro effort connected to Russian “hybrid attacks” on Romania’s election.

The European Commission has since ordered TikTok to preserve data linked to the Romanian election and upcoming EU elections, citing foreign interference concerns.