A new survey by “Trend,” commissioned by “24 Chasa,” shows a noticeable rise in public optimism in Bulgaria following the April 19 parliamentary elections, alongside stronger institutional approval ratings and improving economic expectations.
Conducted between May 16 and May 22, 2026, through face-to-face tablet interviews with 1,000 adults, the poll indicates that the government led by Rumen Radev begins its mandate with 45% positive sentiment compared to 36% negative. Sociologist Dimitar Ganev notes that this is the first cabinet since “Borisov 1” in 2009 to start with a net positive approval balance, where support outweighs disapproval.
According to the findings, the government is particularly strongly supported among voters of “Progressive Bulgaria,” with nearly nine in ten expressing approval. Around one-quarter of voters for DPS, DB, and PP also report a positive attitude toward the cabinet.
The presidential institution also maintains relatively strong standing, with 48% positive and 33% negative evaluations. The president has gained an additional 8 percentage points in positive assessments compared to the previous month, with support again most pronounced among “Progressive Bulgaria” voters. Smaller but still notable approval is seen among voters for DPS and PP (around 40%), DB (about one-third), and roughly one-quarter of GERB and Revival supporters.
