How did the Slovaks vote? The first opinion polls are out

The mayoral race in Bratislava has generated significant interest, with incumbent Matusz Vallo facing off against transport minister Jozef Raž. Early exit polls suggest Vallo is favored to win, which could reflect national sentiments ahead of next year's parliamentary elections. Voter opinions on the ruling coalition, comprising Smer-SSD, Hlas, and the Slovak National Party, may be influenced by recent government austerity measures and rising living costs. While there were minor organizational issues, such as delayed voting in several regions and some incidents of suspected electoral corruption, the elections proceeded largely smoothly. Preliminary estimates indicate voter turnout may exceed that of four years ago, with 44% in regional elections and 46% in municipal elections in 2022.