The upcoming general elections on the 25th of January may trouble New Democracy, however party leader Antonis Samaras and his close consultants appear confident of the outcome. Mr. Samaras has openly claimed that the difference between ND and election favorite (according to the polls) SYRIZA has shrunk to the point of being considered a statistical error.
Experienced New Democracy officers however do not appear to share Mr. Samaras’ optimism, as a lot may occur over the next two and half weeks which may sway voters. Some have pointed out that the party has made strategic errors in its campaign, while others point to unknown factors that may influence voters, such as Giorgos Papandreou’s new party.
The main focus of the Prime Minister is to galvanize and rally traditional New Democracy supporters, many of whom voted for other right-wing and conservative parties. In the 2012 elections 16.5% of voters (about 1 million people) voted for such parties. Mr. Samaras also wants to attract conservative voters who are considering SYRIZA.
Meanwhile executive party officers, such as secretary Andreas Papamimikos, claim that party supporters are rallying behind New Democracy, even more moderate voters who traditionally supported PASOK. There also expectations that Mr. Papandreou’s party will attract voters from SYRIZA. The main problem though appears to be in Attica, where Mr. Samaras’ staff admits a huge difference from the main opposition party.
