Presidential elections 2025. Rafał Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki and the economy. What do they propose?

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Tax reductions, an increase in the second tax bracket, substantial investment funds, and modifications to popular benefits are among the proposals put forth by the presidential candidates who will compete in the second election round. Here, we recap the economic commitments made by Rafał Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki.

Civic Coalition nominee Rafał Trzaskowski and PiS-endorsed Karol Nawrocki will compete in the second round of the presidential election on June 1. In the first round held on Sunday, Trzaskowski received 31.36 percent of the votes, while Nawrocki garnered 29.54 percent, as officially announced by the National Electoral Commission on Monday. Voter turnout was recorded at 67.31 percent.

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Rafał Trzaskowski. What are his economic proposals?

Rafał Trzaskowski outlined six key program areas on his website. Besides „common sense in social matters,” these included: the establishment of the Central Industrial Region, a security agreement, economic patriotism, deregulation, and the creation of the Presidential Investment Fund.

The fund, designed as a means to assist regions facing long-term economic and social challenges, is expected to allocate two billion złotys annually to finance infrastructure modernization projects, among other things. As Trzaskowski explained in December of last year, the goal is to aid cities in addressing their most urgent issues. He also announced plans to develop a map highlighting problems in cities lacking proper communication, and if the government fails to act, he is prepared to take legislative initiative.

The Civic Coalition candidate suggested that the 800 plus benefit should be restricted to foreigners residing and working in Poland. This proposal has received government backing, with plans to draft the appropriate legislation.

The Civic Coalition candidate advocates for a „just transformation,” which involves gradually moving away from coal. He has also accepted gas as a „transition fuel” in this process. Despite facing initial criticism regarding the Central Communication Port project, Trzaskowski has expressed that after its „realization” – including adjustments to the work schedule – the project is worthwhile. Additionally, he has consistently defended the ongoing operation of Okęcie airport, suggesting that both ports should coexist for some time, with plans for Okęcie’s expansion.

Trzaskowski also proposes the development of the Central Industrial District, which would serve as a catalyst for growth in the Podkarpackie province. His plan entails multi-billion investments in road and rail infrastructure, fostering the arms and energy sectors, and supporting local businesses. „We all remember the Central Industrial District from 90 years ago. Today, we should replicate that success,” he stated about this initiative in Mielec this March.

Rafał Trzaskowski’s electoral agenda emphasizes deregulation and the reduction of unnecessary legislation. One of his proposals is „1 for 2” – for each new regulation, two existing ones must be abolished. As president, he aims to implement the „European Union + 0” principle, which entails no additional regulations when adopting EU law. Trzaskowski also intends to introduce measures that favor taxpayers, such as a streamlined tax settlement process and the presumption of taxpayer innocence.

The KO candidate aims to raise defense spending to 5 percent of GDP and to allocate at least 50 percent of funds for the modernization of the Armed Forces to Polish industry.

Trzaskowski has also stated that as president, he would ensure the government fulfills its commitment to increase the tax-free threshold. Additionally, he advocates for reducing health insurance contributions.

Karol Nawrocki. What are his economic proposals?

Karol Nawrocki has announced that on August 6, his first day as president, he will propose legislation to lower the VAT rate from 23 percent to 22 percent, along with a package of „lower and pro-family taxes.”

This package includes, among other initiatives, a 0% PIT rate for families with two or more children. Nawrocki also stated that the relief would be applicable to entrepreneurs who file their taxes under a flat-rate system and use a lump sum on recorded revenues.