Voters in Northeast Iceland prioritize healthcare and economic issues ahead of parliamentary elections

In the lead-up to the parliamentary elections scheduled for November 30, voters in Northeast Iceland are prioritizing healthcare, transportation, economic issues, education, and immigrant-related concerns. A local election forum will be broadcast live from Akureyri, where party leaders will discuss pressing matters important to constituents.

Residents spoken to are notably concerned about the shortage of specialized healthcare services in rural areas. Elín Tryggvadóttir, a pensioner living in Egilsstaðir, expressed frustration about the lack of nursing homes and healthcare services nearby, particularly noting the absence of an ophthalmologist in East Iceland. She finds the current political landscape odd, as familiar faces from outside politics are suddenly seeking office.

Economic stability ranks as the most critical issue for Jón Gunnar Eiríksson from Ólafsfjörður, followed by immigration topics. He has chosen to support the Centre Party unless circumstances change.

For Anna Eydís Friðjónsdóttir, a shopkeeper in Akureyri, healthcare and housing top her concerns. She advocates for a restructured system that would simplify healthcare and allow more individuals access to housing, reminiscent of the old workers’ system.

Aðalsteinn Dagsson, a travel service provider in Mývatnssveit, emphasizes the need for improved road conditions, claiming in the past 13 years, nothing has improved. He identifies as a staunch centrist and plans to vote for the Social Democratic Party.

Younger voters are weighing the importance of education reform, with Bjarney Birta Bergsdóttir, a university student, stressing the need for a more cohesive education system to eliminate disparities between rural and urban schools. She remains undecided but is eager to align her vote with candidates’ policies.