Alma Möller heads Social Democratic Alliance’s list in Southwest constituency for 2024 elections in Iceland

Alma Möller, Iceland’s Chief Epidemiologist, will lead the Social Democratic Alliance’s list in the Southwest constituency for the upcoming 2024 parliamentary elections, barring any changes. Earlier, Guðmundur Árni and Þórunn Sveinbjarnardóttir had expressed interest in heading the list. Alma is entering politics for the first time, despite having been surrounded by it throughout her life.

In response to her nomination, Alma expressed excitement for the upcoming election campaign while confirming her commitment to her current role as Chief Epidemiologist until the constituency council approves the candidate list this weekend. She has already received permission from the Minister of Health to focus on her political endeavors.

Alma has been engaged with politics indirectly for years, influenced by her father, a local council member, and her siblings who have been active in political spheres. She acknowledges that her previous roles in emergency medicine and as Chief Epidemiologist made it challenging to assign time to politics, but now she is ready to transition.

Alma hopes to leverage her expertise in parliament to influence healthcare policies, noting the limitations faced by the Chief Epidemiologist regarding systemic decisions and legislative processes. She emphasizes the importance of a strong public healthcare system and acknowledges the potential benefits and risks associated with privatizing services.

Moreover, Alma aims to improve services for the elderly and children in need of specialized care, linking effective economic management to infrastructure investment and welfare improvements. She expressed her willingness to consider the role of Minister of Health if given the opportunity, should her party gain a foothold in the government.