The candidacy of Konstantinos Tasoulas for the highest office of the President of the Republic enjoys support that transcends the narrow party boundaries of New Democracy, expanding into the broader center-right. This dynamic is reflected in the parliamentary alliances coalescing around Tasoulas’ candidacy, with projections indicating that 165 to 170 MPs are expected to vote in favor.

The total number of affirmative votes does not, of course, approach the increased majority Tasoulas achieved in his three consecutive elections as Speaker of Parliament. However, in the current political climate, most opposition parties view a potential vote in favor as general support for the government. After the latest constitutional revision, the election of the President of the Republic can proceed with a simple parliamentary majority, thereby decoupling the process from the premature dissolution of Parliament.

In any case, reliable information and estimates suggest that, in addition to the 156 MPs from New Democracy, former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and independent MP Marios Salmas are expected to vote in favor.

Samaras and Tasoulas share a common political background, originating from the political lineage of Evangelos Averoff. Moreover, during Samaras’ administration in 2014, the current Speaker of Parliament was appointed Minister of Culture.

Additionally, five MPs from the “Spartans” party and certain independents, including Haris Katsivardas, Pavlos Sarakis, Michalis Gaviotakis, and Giorgos Aspiotis, are inclined to vote in favor.

The Voting Dates
It is reminded that the Constitution stipulates five voting rounds, with the first two requiring an increased majority of 200 MPs to elect the President of the Republic, the third requiring 180, the fourth requiring 151, and the final requiring a simple majority. There is a five-day interval between each voting round.

According to projections, Tasoulas’ election is expected to occur in the 4th round.

The voting rounds are scheduled as follows:

• 1st round: January 25, requiring a majority of 200 MPs.
• 2nd round: January 31, requiring a majority of 200 MPs.
• 3rd round: February 6, requiring a majority of 180 MPs.
• 4th round: February 12, requiring a majority of 151 MPs.
• 5th round: February 18, requiring a simple majority.