There are 27 political groups registered to run in Russia's Dec. 19 parliamentary elections. Party leader Gennady Zyuganov is expected to run as a presidential candidate in June. The emblem of this new party is a bear, and its appeal to voters is a restoration of order and vigorous leadership. The party is expected to draw the support of both nationalists and liberal economic reformers. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is expected to use the group to run for president.
Fatherland counts on support from some heavyweight regional governors.
Its small but steady following tends to be urban and middle class. Yabloko leaders include Grigory Yavlinsky and former Prime Minister Sergei Stepashin. The alliance mainly appeals to urban youths and affluent professionals. Leaders include former Prime Minister Sergei Kirienko and ex-First Deputy Prime Minister Boris Nemtsov.