Gitanas Nauseda, Lithuania’s dynamic and independent president, has been elected again to a second term, confirming his status as the country’s most popular politician. His unique political profile, which blends left-leaning economic ideas and conservative social beliefs, has brought him praise and criticism.
From Banker to President
Nauseda, originally from Klaipeda, started his career as a chief economist at a popular bank. Despite his excellent track record, he was previously seen as politically insignificant. This view shifted drastically in 2019, when he won the presidential election and created a social media meme known as “tall and handsome.” This double-edged comment underscored both his charming personality and the early doubts about his political capabilities.
Reelection Amid Unpopularity of the Government
On May 26, 2024, Nauseda won a run-off election against Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte of the center-right Homeland Union (TS-LKD). According to political scientist Lauras Bielinis of Kaunas University, Nauseda’s popularity comes in part from Simonyte’s government’s unpopularity. Despite directing Lithuania out of the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the coalition government has faced criticism for developing living costs, which have overshadowed their gains in raising salaries and pensions.
A Socialist in Economics, a Moralist in Society
Nauseda has skillfully positioned himself as a president who is beyond party politics and promotes the greater good. His ability to connect with a wide range of social groups, especially in rural areas, contrasts with the increased support for conservative and liberal parties in Vilnius.
Ramunas Vilpisauskas, a political scientist at Vilnius University, observes that Nauseda’s economic views are left-leaning, arguing for the welfare state. However, his conservative Catholic beliefs on abortion and LGBTQ rights are consistent with right-wing ethics. The duality permits him to connect with a wide range of voters.
Controversial Social situations
Nauseda’s conservative views caused debate, especially on LGBTQ rights. When coalition parties established a bill allowing same-sex partnerships, it encountered strong opposition, which Nauseda initially supported. Critics claim that he deliberately kept such topics off the political agenda
Future Political Landscape
Polls indicate that the conservative-liberal government alliance will be removed in the next election for the legislature, maybe ushering in a coalition of social Democrats and the Farmers and Greens Union of Lithuania’s . Given the traditional conservatism of Lithuanian social democrats and farmers, this shift might be more in line with Nauseda’s economic and social beliefs.
Gitanas Nauseda’s presidency represents an individual blend of economic socialism and social conservatism. As he begins his second term, Lithuania’s is watching to see how his unique political approach will impact the future of the nation.
READ MORE: GAIL (India) Ltd Commissions India’s First 10 MW Green Hydrogen Plant: A Step Towards Clean Energy
About the Author
