None of the other candidates inspire much enthusiasm,
How you can beat a guy with an 80% personal approval rating?
Not much. People like Putin but don’t think much of the government.
To the extent he benefits, its a vote for him and not for the widely despised establishment.
I have posted elsewhere my thoughts on the Putin regime. Lived in Russia 2015-2017. I pray to God for the the implosion of Putin state everyday. And will light a candle at Orthodox church later for Russia’s transition to a truly free society.
So much darkness right now...
Putin is supprted by the russian people in the same way We supported Eisenhower & Reagan. All three had 60%+ approval ratings.
It is easy to be a big winner if you kill off and/or exile the opposition, including rich contenders, the press, and other politicians.