Leaders prepare for first debate ahead of 2024 Icelandic parliamentary elections

The first debate among the leaders of the eleven political parties contesting the 2024 Icelandic parliamentary elections is set to take place tonight at 19:40 on RÚV. Despite a slight decrease in support, the Social Democratic Alliance remains the largest party in the latest Gallup poll, while the Independence Party has gained some traction.

In a recent poll, the Socialists stand out by potentially securing a seat, despite their overall national support being measured at 4.5%. Traditionally, the five percent threshold has been viewed as necessary to secure representation, primarily applying to compensatory seats. However, if a party garners enough local support, such as the Socialists’ 7.5% in the Reykjavik South constituency, it can achieve direct election victories without hitting the five percent mark nationally. This scenario would mark a historical precedent for the party.

In another reflection of shifting political dynamics, the Social Democratic Alliance’s lead is being challenged, as support for the party has slightly declined to 23.8%. The Independence Party follows with 17.3%, while the Left-Green Movement continues to trail behind without representation. The Pirates are on the edge of achieving the five percent threshold in recent polls, now sitting at 5.4%.

Tonight’s debate will include party leaders such as Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson from the Progressive Party, Bjarní Benediktsson from the Independence Party, and others, all vying for influence in the upcoming elections set for November 30th.