In a lively interview on Kanal Zero, Sławomir Mentzen, a prominent leader of the Konfederacja party and a candidate for the Polish presidency, proposed a debate with fellow candidate Rafał Trzaskowski, suggesting that it take place on TVN, a station known for its favorable coverage of Trzaskowski. During the discussion with host Krzysztof Stanowski, Mentzen expressed his willingness to participate in a debate at any time that does not conflict with his campaign rallies. "My proposal for journalists and media workers at TVN is that if you organize a debate with Rafał Trzaskowski, I would gladly appear on any day that doesn't conflict with my rallies," he stated.
Mentzen's remarks came as he navigated questions about his media appearances, particularly his avoidance of interviews with certain journalists like Monika Olejnik, whom he labeled a propagandist. He emphasized that he has given hundreds of interviews but finds certain media figures untrustworthy. "You can choose any pair of hosts from TVN, whether it be Piotr Kraśko or Monika Olejnik; I have no objections," he added, challenging Trzaskowski to accept the invitation.
In a surprising twist during the same interview, Mentzen was challenged to cook scrambled eggs live on air, a task that drew in an audience of 225,000 viewers. Initially hesitant, he took on the challenge and humorously remarked, "Making a good scrambled egg and something that looks like scrambled eggs are two completely different matters, as you will soon find out." The outcome was a dish that Stanowski praised, claiming it was worthy of a three-star hotel.
Mentzen's political ambitions are bolstered by recent polling data, which indicates he is currently positioned third in the presidential race. According to a United Surveys poll conducted between March 21 and 23, 2025, Trzaskowski leads with 33.2% of the vote, followed by Karol Nawrocki from the ruling PiS party at 25.3%, and Mentzen with 18%.
When asked about the possibility of forming a coalition with either PiS or the opposition KO, Mentzen acknowledged he would have reservations but would not entirely rule it out. "I would have huge reservations, but in politics, nothing can be excluded, and certainly, nothing should terrify you," he remarked. He affirmed his ambition to fight for the prime minister position in the next parliamentary elections.
Mentzen's approach to the campaign reflects a broader strategy to engage younger voters, as evidenced by a recent rally in Lublin on March 22, where he attracted large crowds. At this event, he encouraged attendees to support Krzysztof Stanowski's presidential bid by signing his petition, highlighting a unique collaboration between the two candidates. Stanowski, who aims to document the presidential campaign from an insider's perspective, needs over 100,000 signatures to qualify for the ballot.
Despite his non-political background, Stanowski has gained traction, and his media savvy has been noted as a potential asset in gathering the necessary signatures. In a candid post on social media, he expressed his belief that in three years, it will be impossible to form a government without Mentzen, suggesting that the latter will hold significant leverage in future political negotiations.
As the presidential race heats up, Mentzen's candidacy is characterized by a blend of traditional campaigning and modern media engagement, appealing to a demographic eager for change. His willingness to propose debates and engage directly with voters through unconventional means, such as cooking on live television, sets him apart in a crowded field.
With the election looming, the dynamics between Mentzen, Trzaskowski, and other candidates will likely shape the political landscape in Poland. Mentzen’s assertive stance and public challenges may resonate with voters looking for a candidate who is not afraid to confront the status quo.
As the campaign progresses, all eyes will be on whether Trzaskowski accepts Mentzen's debate challenge and how the candidates will navigate the complex political terrain leading up to the elections.
