In Środa Śląska, Karol Nawrocki, the PiS-backed candidate for president, addressed a crowd with a mix of hope and frustration. At the heart of his message was a big question: Can Poland reclaim its ambition to lead in new technologies? His speech touched on a recently suspended Intel investment, strained U.S.-Poland relations, and the ongoing neglect of smaller Polish regions.
A Missed Chance for Innovation
Intel, one of the biggest tech companies in the world, investing 20 billion złoty in Poland to build a cutting-edge semiconductor plant. That was the plan. It would’ve been a game-changer, turning Poland into a key player in the global tech scene. But now, that dream is on hold.
“This investment was more than just money—it was a hope for Poland to become a true leader in new technologies,” Nawrocki told the crowd. His disappointment was clear. For him, it’s not just about one project but about what it says for Poland’s future. “We need to embrace these opportunities and adapt to the technological demands of the modern world.”
Building Bridges with the U.S.
Nawrocki didn’t hold back when discussing Poland’s relationship with the United States. He argued that under Civic Platform leadership, the country has struggled to maintain strong ties with America, especially during Donald Trump’s presidency.
“It’s hard to build a solid partnership when politicians from the opposition were openly disrespectful to Trump,” he said. With Trump now back in the White House, Nawrocki believes Poland has a fresh opportunity—but only if it’s ready to step up.
“Poland needs to be the European Union’s leader in relations with the U.S.—not just in security but in technology, too,” he said. “We should be America’s gateway to Europe for building the tech industry of tomorrow.”
Standing Up for “County Poland”
Nawrocki also took time to talk about an issue close to many Poles’ hearts: the neglect of small towns and rural areas. He accused the central government of focusing too much on big cities, leaving smaller counties like Środa Śląska to fend for themselves.
“County Poland is often left out of crucial programs, like the Strategic Investment Program or the Road Development Fund,” he said. For Nawrocki, visiting Środa Śląska wasn’t just a campaign stop—it was a chance to push for projects that could make a real difference, like finishing the modernization of the A4 motorway and upgrading the S-class road connecting Środa Śląska to Wrocław.