In December, Russia's Parliament will hold elections. Deprived by the constitution of any true political authority, the Duma is still important as a collective opinion-maker. In 1993-1999, it became an ongoing anti-Yeltsin show, the most prominent podium for any sharp criticism of the president. As a legislature, the Duma may be not too prominent because Russia is now being governed by presidential decrees rather than laws passed by the Parliament. But the Duma plays a key role in molding the preferences of Russia's voters.

In June 2000, Russians are to elect a new president. For all candidates it is of crucial importance who will be in control of the Duma by that time. The endorsement of the legislature's deputies will be extremely valuable to all participants in the presidential race. This is why the forthcoming parliamentary election is of a paramount significance, and why no serious leader can afford the luxury of ignoring it. In a sense, this election serves as a primary for the presidential contest.

Russian politics are still organized around leaders rather than political parties. This is why various political groups in Russia are desperately trying to win the favors of potential presidential candidates. To get the right presidential candidate on your party's ticket could mean millions of votes in December. It is important for all presidential candidates to get associated with the right political group -- one that will be strong enough to lobby his candidacy between now and next June.