Putin’s party loses edge in provinces

United Russia is the chief representative of central authority in Russia’s provinces, where officials, if they want to have long careers, join the party’s ranks. It controls virtually every local legislature, mayoralty, and two-thirds of parliament, winning elections through fair means or foul.

However, there are signs in local politics in parts of Russia its grips is slipping.

ESO: Background information: Pro-Kremlin party wins majority in Russian regional polls http://www.europeansources.info/record/pro-kremlin-party-wins-majority-in-russian-regional-polls/

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