Russian Crackdown

Russia will hold elections to the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, and experts think the vote will consolidate President Vladimir Putin’s power base in the Kremlin. It’s widely expected that the ruling United Russia party will secure a convincing victory in the vote that takes place in the next few days, heralding more authoritarianism as a result. United Russia is now polling at around 30%, substantially lower than in 2016. Despite its poor ratings, it maintains a comfortable lead over its biggest competitors. United Russia and other pro-Kremlin affiliates should retain a large majority in the Duma. Considering the limited presence of international observers and a sweeping crackdown on the opposition, independent media, and civic organizations during the past year, the upcoming election will likely be the least transparent and least competitive during President Vladimir Putin’s 20-plus years in power.