Dialog in the Novosibirsk metro. "As soon as I went downstairs today, I realized that the elections were coming up..." "What's this," the other man chuckles, "is there a polling station in your building?" - I think they've opened one for you, too. Haven't you noticed that all the mailboxes are filled with newspapers we don't subscribe to? Now we'll be getting free newspapers for about three months. We'll be reading so many detective stories... The people around them are laughing. The picture described by their fellow travelers is familiar to everyone. Leaving aside the humorous tone, we can say that Novosibirsk, with its population of 1.5 million, is perhaps the most politicized city in Western Siberia. This is evidenced by various sociological studies, the number of registered political parties and associations, the frequent visits to the "capital of Siberia" by leaders of the Duma factions, and the abundance of newspaper publications per capita. Political battles related to the election campaigns for the city and regional councils, as well as for the State Duma, which take place in the region at different times, are almost permanent here. This can be easily seen from the city's appearance. When passing through its central square, Lenin Square, one can often see protesters in the park opposite the Opera House. Without delving into the analysis of the current situation, I would like to point out that Novosibirsk is a city with a strong defense and scientific potential in the recent past. This is what defines his active social and political credo. The current election campaign has begun here with great momentum, almost without any delay. This is due to the fact that the elections to the State Duma almost coincide with the elections for the governor of the region. There were more than enough applicants for this position. And what was supposed to happen happened: the struggle for voters' souls began. People in military uniforms are fully aware of this. Until rece ... Читать далее