Trust in Leadership: Recent Polls Show Strong Support for Putin
A recent survey by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM) reveals that 77.2% of Russians express trust in President Vladimir Putin. This statistic highlights the enduring support for Putin amidst various political dynamics in the country. The survey, which included 1,600 adult participants, was conducted via telephone from September 23 to 29, 2024, and shows a notable approval rating of 73.6% for his performance during that period.
In comparison, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin received a trust rating of 60.1%, while other political figures such as Gennady Zyuganov of the Communist Party and Sergei Mironov of
A Just Russia garnered 32.3% and 25.8% respectively. These figures reflect a significant preference for the current leadership, with support for the United Russia party rising to 36.5%, an increase of 1.4 percentage points from the previous week.
Government Performance Ratings
The approval ratings extend beyond the president to the government as a whole, with 48.8% of respondents positively assessing its performance. Mishustin's individual performance was rated positively by 51.3% of those surveyed. This consistent support is echoed by similar findings from the Public Opinion Foundation, which reported a 1% increase in trust for Putin, bringing it to 77%. Notably, 79% of respondents expressed a positive view of his work, indicating a stable confidence in his leadership despite external challenges.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on the intertwined nature of Putin's civilian and military responsibilities, asserting that the president's comprehensive approach to governance is a key factor in his sustained popularity. Peskov emphasized that the high ratings are a result of Putin's daily, responsible work and do not influence his decision-making processes.
Context of Putin's Popularity
Putin's approval ratings have remained robust, with a previous VTsIOM report in July indicating a trust level of 80.9%. This data coincides with his recent re-election in March 2024, where he secured 87.28% of the vote, amounting to over 76 million ballots cast in his favor. Ella Pamfilova, Chairperson of the Russian Central Election Commission, noted a significant increase in voters with a strong civic position, highlighting an engaged electorate compared to previous elections.
The Kremlin maintains that despite these high ratings, Putin's work remains unaffected by public opinion, reinforcing the narrative of a leader focused on the challenges facing Russia today.
