Erdogan's Fate Hangs In Balance Amid Runoff Uncertainty, Turkish Leader Says 'The Nation Has Chosen Us'

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is still awaiting the outcome of the Turkish polls, which indicate his AK Party leading in the presidential election on Sunday.

What Happened: Erdogan, speaking to supporters in Ankara, said he could still win but would respect the nation's decision if the race went to a runoff vote in two weeks.

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"We don't yet know if the elections ended in the first round…If our nation has chosen for a second round, that is also welcome," Erdogan said, reported Associated Press.

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"That the election results have not been finalized doesn't change the fact that the nation has chosen us," Erdogan said.

See AlsoTurkey’s Erdogan Says Election Triumph Will Give ‘Message To The West’ In Barb At US

Why It Matters: Erdogan has been in power in Turkey as either prime minister or president since 2003. Prior to the election, polls had suggested that his opponent was slightly ahead of him, as the increasingly authoritarian leader faced tough competition amid the Middle-Eastern country's raging inflation. 

A second round of voting on May 28 will be held if Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu are unable to reach the 50% threshold.

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