The United Russia party discussed preparations for the election campaign at a meeting of the General Council.

      At the meeting of the General Council of the United Russia party, its members outlined the key priorities for preparing for the 2026 election campaign. Member of the General Council of United Russia and deputy of the Kazan City Duma, Marcel Sharapov, also participated in the event. General Council Secretary Vladimir Yakushev emphasized that the future faction of the party in the State Duma should be formed from like-minded individuals directly connected to the party's infrastructure. According to him, it is important to ensure the selection of candidates who share the values and course of the party already at the stage of preliminary voting, in order to form a strong and effective team. Special attention was paid by the meeting participants to supporting those wishing to build a political career among participants of the special military operation. Additional measures are provided for them – from electronic submission of documents to a mentoring institute that accompanies candidates not only during the campaign but also after receiving their mandate. The norm of an additional 25% of votes in the primaries for participants of the special military operation is also maintained. In Yakushev's opinion, the number of elected representatives from among the fighters should significantly increase in 2026. According to the leadership of United Russia, the party continues to systematically strengthen its structure, focusing on the development of primary and local branches, as well as on active representatives who will become a key support in the elections. Today, United Russia unites millions of supporters and hundreds of thousands of activists, including municipal deputies, young guards, and representatives of public movements. An important role in the election campaign is traditionally played by the people's program, which is formed based on citizens' proposals and aimed at solving key socio-economic issues. The nomination of candidates for the primaries has already started and will last until April 30, voter registration will take place from April 20 to May 29, and the preliminary voting itself will be held from May 25 to May 31. The elections for the deputies of the State Duma are scheduled for September 18-20, 2026. Already now, participants are actively registering in the regions – from current deputies to representatives of youth and special operation fighters. The party is confident that this confirms the openness and competitiveness of the procedure. The head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, actively supports the implementation of the party program, and the republic itself is systematically preparing for the elections of State Duma deputies. "The Tatarstan regional branch of the party is actively involved in the formation and refinement of the people's program, contributing its own initiatives and proposals aimed at the development of the region and improving the quality of life for citizens. The republic demonstrates a high level of organizational readiness and political engagement, which allows for a confident outlook on the upcoming election campaign," noted Marcel Sharapov.

      Photo provided by Marcel Sharapov.