Support for the Independence Party increased 8% last month measuring 44% according to a recent Gallup poll. Support for the Left Green Party, 14%, decreased by 5% during the same period.
The Icelandic National Broadcast Service points out a correlation between the increase in support for the Independence Party and the recent cabinet shuffle. Former prime minister Davíd Oddsson stepped down as foreign affairs minister last week. His departure, as both a senior cabinet minister and as head of the Independence Party in Iceland, will open the door for Geir H. Haarde, former minister of finance now minister of the foreign affairs, to run as Chair of the Independence Party at the upcoming party conference in October.
According to Gallup 48% of the nation is pleased with the changes in the cabinet; 17% are displeased with the changes; and 34% are indifferent. Gallup also asked how people thought Geir H. Haarde would perform; 84% of those asked said they thought he would do a good job while 9% believe that he will not be successful.
The Social Democrats received 29% support, 1% less than in August. The Progressive Party, 9%, and the Liberal party, 4%, both received 1% less support than in August. The Left Green Party lost the most support, 5%, and measured in at 14%.
Gallup also asked the respondents their view on Iceland running for a seat on the UN Security Council. 28% of respondents said they support seeking a seat on the council while 53% oppose it. 19% did not take a stand on the issue.
