Why Right-Wing and Populist Voters Back 'Left-Wing' President

Croatian President Zoran Milanović, typically characterized as 'left-wing,' is increasingly finding favor among right-wing and populist segments of the electorate. This unexpected alignment stems from his perceived authenticity and sovereignist stances, which resonate more strongly with these groups than the policies of Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

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Milanović is no longer trying to please anyone, so I believe he is truly expressing his authentic views. His authenticity is unquestionable to me.

The current political tension between President Milanović and Prime Minister Plenković, involving the Minister of Defense and the Minister of Justice, has become a focal point. The dispute centers on the deployment of Croatian soldiers to a parade in Paris, a decision that has sparked controversy and highlighted divisions within the military leadership.

Despite the 'left-wing' label, Milanović's firm positions and outspoken nature appear to appeal to voters who might traditionally lean right. His willingness to challenge established norms and express what many perceive as genuine opinions has garnered him a following beyond his expected political base.

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It is not enough that we are being swamped by hellish heat, but the public is intensely engaged these days with another heated topic, the political one.

This phenomenon is not entirely new, but the current situation has intensified, with Milanović clearly benefiting from the support of those who might logically be closer to Plenković's HDZ party. His sovereignist rhetoric and direct communication style seem to be more appealing than the current government's approach.

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The relationship between the President of the state Zoran Milanović and the President of the Government Andrej Plenković... is on the verge of a new rupture, and all this is happening on the backs of the Croatian Army and the generals and Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Tihomir Kundid, all because of the issue of sending our soldiers to the parade in Paris.

Ankica Mamić, a commentator, noted that Milanović no longer seems to be trying to please everyone, suggesting his current statements reflect his authentic views. This perceived authenticity is a key factor in his growing appeal across the political spectrum.

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And in the end, it turns out that the traditionally 'left-wing' president of the state is also supported by the right-wing and those called populists.