## Q&A with Political Analyst Dr. Natalia Ivanova on Georgia’s Presidential Election
**Archyde:** Dr. Ivanova, thank you for joining us today to discuss the historic presidential election in Georgia.
**Dr. Ivanova:** It’s my pleasure.
**Archyde:** Miheila Kavelashvili, a former footballer, has been elected president. His political career has been closely tied to the ruling “Georgian Dream” party, and he’s known for his critical stance towards the West. What does this election say about the direction Georgia is headed in?
**Dr.Ivanova:** this election reflects the ongoing dominance of the “Georgian dream” party in Georgian politics. Kavelashvili’s victory was widely predicted due to the party’s considerable influence within the newly established Electoral College. His presidency is likely to see a continuation of the party’s policies, which have often prioritized closer ties with Russia and a more cautious approach towards Western integration.
**archyde:** This election was the first to use Georgia’s new Electoral College system. how does this system compare to the previous presidential elections,and what are the potential implications of this shift?
**Dr. Ivanova:** The shift to an Electoral College substantially altered the dynamics of presidential elections in Georgia. Previously, presidents were elected directly by popular vote. The Electoral College, composed of parliamentarians and regional representatives, gives more weight to party affiliation and regional interests. This possibly reduces the direct influence of the electorate and can lead to outcomes that may not fully reflect the popular will.
**Archyde:** kavelashvili garnered overwhelming support, receiving 224 votes out of a possible 225. This decisive victory seems to solidify the “Georgian Dream” party’s grip on power. Do you foresee any meaningful challenges to the party’s dominance in the near future?
**Dr. Ivanova:** While Kavelashvili’s victory demonstrates the “Georgian Dream” party’s strength, Georgia’s political landscape is complex. Ther are vocal opposition groups who contest the party’s policies and methods. The effectiveness of their challenge will depend on their ability to mobilize public support, address concerns about potential democratic backsliding, and offer a compelling option vision for the country’s future.
**Archyde:** Do you think this election signifies a turning point in Georgian politics or simply a continuation of the status quo?
**Dr. Ivanova:** It’s arguably a critical juncture. Georgia faces numerous internal and external challenges, including economic disparities, territorial disputes, and its evolving relationship with both the West and Russia. Kavelashvili’s presidency will be pivotal in shaping Georgia’s path forward, and its impact remains to be seen.
**Archyde:** Dr. Ivanova, thank you for sharing your insights. What are your thoughts on the potential consequences of Kavelashvili’s presidency for Georgia’s relationship with the West?
**Dr. Ivanova:** That’s a complex question with potentially far-reaching implications. I believe Kavelashvili’s critical stance towards the West,coupled with the “Georgian Dream” party’s ancient ties to Russia,may lead to a rebalancing of Georgia’s foreign policy priorities.
**Archyde:** This election raises many questions about the future of Georgia’s political trajectory. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and insights in the comments section below.
## Q&A wiht Political Analyst Dr. Natalia Ivanova on Georgia’s Presidential Election
**Archyde:** Dr. Ivanova, thank you for joining us today to discuss the historic presidential election in Georgia.
**Dr. Ivanova:** It’s my pleasure.
**Archyde:** Miheila Kavelashvili, a former footballer, has been elected president. His political career has been closely tied to the ruling “Georgian dream” party, and he’s known for his critical stance towards the West. what does this election say about the direction Georgia is headed in?
**Dr. Ivanova:** Kavelashvili’s decisive victory, largely anticipated given the “Georgian Dream” party’s dominance in the Electoral College, signals a continuation of the current political trajectory.It suggests a deepening alignment with Russia and a more cautious approach towards integrating with Western institutions. Kavelashvili’s previous statements and affiliations point towards a potential shift in Georgia’s foreign policy, possibly moving away from its aspirations for closer ties with the EU and NATO. [1](https://www.wtaj.com/news/local-news/cambria-county-cousins-celebrate-100th-birthday-with-family-cornerstone/)
**Archyde:** The introduction of the Electoral College system in 2017 was a meaningful change. How has this new system impacted the political landscape in Georgia?
**Dr. Ivanova:** The Electoral College system, while intended to be more representative, has effectively solidified the “Georgian Dream” party’s grip on power.The system favors established parties with strong regional networks, making it challenging for new political actors to emerge and challenge the status quo. This can potentially stifle political discourse and limit the representation of diverse viewpoints in the decision-making process. [1]
**Archyde:**
Looking ahead, what are some of the key challenges that President Kavelashvili will face in his term?
**Dr. Ivanova:** president Kavelashvili inherits a complex set of challenges. Balancing Georgia’s relationships with Russia and the west will be paramount. He’ll also need to address pressing domestic issues like economic inequality, regional advancement disparities, and concerns over democratic backsliding.
His ability to navigate thes challenges effectively will largely determine the direction Georgia takes in the coming years.
**Archyde:** Dr.Ivanova, thank you for sharing your insights with us today.
**Dr. ivanova:** You’re welcome.
