Almost 90 Percent of Russians Support Putin – Poll

A recent survey revealed that the vast majority of Russian voters approve of the Russian President’s politics.

The High approval ratings of Vladimir Putin’s policies were first registered in March 2014 when an independence referendum took place in Crimea. The support rose further in the spring of 2014 after the subsequent secession of the peninsula from Ukraine.

In February 2014, the Russian President enjoyed the support of 64 % of the country’s population. The figure reached 86% in May 2014 and 87% in October 2015. All in all, the approval rate remained consistently high in the past year and a half, at levels above 84%. During his whole presidency since 1999 (except 2008-2012 when Dmitry Medvedev held the presidential post), the ratings have never fallen below 60%, the poll revealed.

The largest growth in Putin’s support was recorded among low-income citizens, with 45% in November 2013 compared to 82% in May 2015. Among respondents with average incomes, the figure increased from 63% to 88%, respectively.

The level of electoral support for the ruling United Russia Party also increased after Crimea became a part of Russia. However, the increase was less significant and short-lived. 60% of Russians supported the party in May 2014 compared to 42-43% at the beginning of the year.  In June 2014, the figure dropped to 55%, fluctuated between 55-59% afterwards and fell to 52-53% in November.

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