Jewish chess legend Judit Polgar rejects offer to become Hungary’s president

Jewish chess grandmaster Judit Polgar has declined an offer from Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar to become the country's president. Magyar had nominated Polgar, a respected figure outside of politics, as part of his initiative to move beyond Viktor Orban's 16-year tenure. Polgar stated on social media, "I do not feel I have the strength to take on the historic responsibility of uniting a divided nation, and so I am unable to accept the invitation." She added that she would support a new, independent president. Magyar expressed regret but respected her decision. The prime minister apologized for "communication mistakes" regarding the nomination process, which occurred after President Tamas Sulyok was removed by constitutional amendment last week.