Fewer than half prioritize mayoral candidates’ integrity

Fewer than half of Lithuanian residents say a mayoral candidate’s honesty and reputation matter when they choose whom to support, according to a poll by Baltijos tyrimai commissioned by LRT. The candidate’s party and election programme ranked lower.

Integrity and reputation were the most frequently selected factors, named by 44.6% of respondents. Previous work and results came close, at 43.2%, while 37.6% said a candidate’s competence and leadership ability mattered.

A candidate’s positions on education, healthcare and social issues mattered to 25.8% of respondents. Another 21.7% cited views on municipal infrastructure, roads and public transport, while 19.7% said they considered the candidate’s ability to attract investment and create jobs.

Promises and the election programme were important to 14.9% of those surveyed. The candidate’s political party mattered to 11.6%, personal qualities to 10.6%, and whether the candidate was independent to 8.9%. A further 6.8% said they did not seek information on these matters.

Respondents could select up to three factors. Political scientists cited positive aspects in the findings, noting that a candidate’s achievements and work record continue to matter more in municipal elections than party affiliation.

Baltijos tyrimai surveyed 1,025 Lithuanian residents aged 18 and over between September 23 and October 5, 2026. The poll was conducted through in-person interviews at respondents’ homes. Its stated margin of error is no more than 3.1 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

Municipal council and mayoral elections are due in less than five months.