In a meeting with candidates for regional branch secretaries, President of United Russia Dmitry Medvedev highlighted that four contenders for the top posts in regional branches are currently serving as governors and carry full responsibility for their regions. He suggested that this track record naturally positions them to lead the party branches.
From the same press release, it was noted that the four regional secretarial candidates drawn from the leaders of the constituent entities include Mikhail Kotyukov, governor of the Krasnoyarsk Territory; Vladislav Kuznetsov, head of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug; Dmitry Makhonin, governor of Perm District; and Vitaly Khotsenko, head of the Omsk Region. The group also contains other regional administration heads and representatives of federal structures who remain in the pool for consideration.
Medvedev reminded the attendees that the work of the party relies on the authenticity of its members and their readiness to take on public authority or grassroots economic influence. He stressed that the party’s leadership is an independent enterprise built on the trust of voters and the practical ability to execute decisions.
He reiterated that this is the strength of the ruling party: a series of bridges between possibilities and responsibilities. The president underscored that with sustained effort, stable progress and results will follow. During the gathering with regional branch secretaries, discussions covered goals for regional party operations, including support for participants in special military operations and their families, as well as broader assistance to those on the front lines. The topics also encompassed the implementation of the United Russia program at the local level, service commitments to voters, and preparations for the forthcoming presidential election cycle.
Andrei Turchak, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council and Secretary of the General Council of United Russia, commented on the quality of the prospective colleagues. He noted that, beyond varied management experience, their electoral track records show practical experience in winning support across regions.
“Mikhail Kotyukov, Vitaly Khotsenko and Vladislav Kuznetsov have made decisive moves this autumn. Our other colleagues also participated in regional campaigns in one way or another,” he stated, underscoring the breadth of involvement across the party’s national footprint.
Following a decision by the Presidium of the General Council, all four candidates were officially designated as proxy candidates. Their nominations will be reviewed and evaluated at regional party conferences by the end of November, with the outcomes shaping the leadership slate for the upcoming period.