Romania's prime minister-designate began coalition negotiations on Monday, but analysts warn that a technocratic cabinet used as cover by political parties may be more damaging than early elections.
Tomac must win a parliamentary vote by June 14, without guaranteed support from PNL or USR.
Without the 135 votes of PNL and USR, the proposed cabinet may fall short of the 233-vote threshold.
DW analysis warns that a prolonged crisis strengthens AUR regardless of which scenario plays out.
The prime minister-designate has until June 14 to secure a parliamentary vote; without PNL and USR, the required threshold of 233 votes is out of reach.
Tomac must request a confidence vote in Parliament by June 14.
Without PNL and USR, he cannot reach the minimum threshold of 233 votes.
PSD has signalled willingness to talk but has made no firm commitment.
The prime minister-designate handed out political labels ahead of his confidence vote, with his warmest words reserved for a PSD figure he needs on his side.
Romania's prime minister-designate explained on Antena 3 that he holds Romanian and Moldovan citizenship, and broke down in tears recalling his childhood village near Ukraine.
Tomac renounced Ukrainian citizenship in order to obtain Moldovan citizenship.
The move was legally necessary: Ukraine does not allow dual citizenship.
The investiture vote deadline is 14 June; a parliamentary majority remains uncertain.