Tarmo Jüristo says that if the Reform Party, Eesti 200, and the Social Democrats reach an agreement, then only a few additional votes will be needed to elect the president. To elect the president in the Riigikogu, at least 68 votes are required.
Jüristo says that a candidate who causes fewer conflicts should be found for the presidency. He compares this to the election of a pope. If someone is seriously opposed to a candidate, it is a big problem.
Currently, the president's foreign policy role is more important than before. Lennart Meri was a good example where this role was very significant. But the president also has other duties, such as safeguarding the constitution.
Jüristo recalled that in previous elections, candidates who appeared in the press early did not do well. Those who start their campaigns later are more successful.
Although there is no rule that the prime minister and the president cannot be from the same party, it is unlikely. The prime minister's party has the largest faction in the Riigikogu, and other parties want a different candidate.
Jüristo does not believe that a candidate from Isamaa can become president. Isamaa does not have enough influence in the Riigikogu. However, Isamaa was more successful in local elections.
The presidential elections will take place at the end of this summer. The current president, Alar Karis, is likely not running for a second term.