Ilfov County Council President Hubert Thuma, a prominent internal opponent to Ilie Bolojan within the National Liberal Party (PNL), has publicly criticized Bolojan’s leadership bid. Thuma alleges that Bolojan is incorporating individuals into leadership positions who recently adopted liberal ideologies. He frames this as a deliberate “USR-ization” of the PNL, referencing the United Romania Save (USR) party, suggesting a shift in the PNL’s core principles. Thuma’s comments were made during the PNL congress, where Bolojan is campaigning for party leadership with a platform titled “Modernization with Roots.” The criticism centers on the authenticity of new members’ commitment to the PNL’s established values. This dispute highlights internal divisions within the PNL regarding its future direction and ideological alignment. Thuma’s statement positions the leadership contest as a battle for the party’s identity.