Voter interest in ruling Bhumjaithai Party wanes amid economic woes and scandals

Support for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) has seen a sharp decrease, raising concerns about the government's public confidence just three months into its term. The administration faces increasing scrutiny over economic conditions, a series of controversies, and a lack of major policy achievements.

Recent Nida Poll results indicate that People's Party leader Nattapong Ruangpanyawut is now the most preferred political figure with 26% support, edging out Prime Minister Anutin at 21.6%. Both figures saw declines from the previous quarter, with Anutin's support dropping by nearly 8 percentage points. More concerning for the BJT, the party's popularity fell from 26.6% to 17%, suggesting dissatisfaction extends beyond the prime minister himself.

According to Asst Prof Suvicha Pouaree, director of Nida Poll, the most significant losses occurred among older voters, conservatives, farmers, homemakers, and laborers. Notably, this lost support has not primarily shifted to the People's Party but rather to other conservative parties or undecided voters. This indicates that the BJT is losing favor with its traditional base rather than facing a direct opposition challenge. The party has also seen a decline among lower-income groups, particularly those earning less than 10,000 baht per month, linked to dissatisfaction over revised state welfare card eligibility rules.

While economic hardship and disappointment over delayed relief measures appear to be key voter concerns, a series of controversies has also captured public attention. These include a local government recruitment examination scandal under the Interior Ministry, organized crime concerns in Phuket, a land dispute, passport issues, and allegations of Senate collusion. Asst Prof Suvicha considers these controversies contributing factors rather than the central cause of the declining support, emphasizing that economic factors and welfare issues are more critical to voters.

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What is interesting is the lost support has not mainly shifted to the People's Party.