Manipulating Russia's Political Future, One Election at a Time

In Russia's upcoming parliamentary elections, more will be at stake for the country's ruling party than control of the legislature. The elections, set for Sept. 18, will be a litmus test for United Russia, revealing whether the party has the support it would need for President Vladimir Putin to seek another term in office in 2018. On top of that, it will be the country's first national elections since the 2011-12 electoral season, when the dubious results of parliamentary and presidential votes sparked mass demonstrations nationwide. Facing enormous pressure and mounting opposition — not only among the public but also inside the Kremlin — Putin needs the parliamentary elections to go smoothly, unmarred by major protests or controversy. At the same time, he also needs a decent performance from United Russia. To ensure these outcomes, the Kremlin will resort to electoral chicanery, though it will be careful to avoid the blatant tactics that provoked unrest in the last national vote.