Leader survives vote, polls show

Romania’s president easily survived a referendum on his impeachment, according to exit polls, which showed a victory that he said reflected the popularity of his fight against corruption.

Three-quarters of voters said they did not want President Traian Basescu ousted, according to two exit polls.

Five parties in Parliament banded together last month to suspend Basescu, saying he had violated the constitution by usurping the role of the prime minister and criticizing the courts. The parties also called the referendum on his impeachment.

Basescu, a staunch U.S. ally, has said the main reason for his conflict with lawmakers was his determination to shield prosecutors and judges from traditional interference from politicians.