Putin's supporters formally nominate him as an independent candidate for the 2024 presidential election. They gather at least 500 signatures, including officials from the ruling United Russia party. Independent candidates need 300,000 signatures. Putin has used different tactics in previous elections, running as an independent in 2018 and as a nominee of United Russia in 2012. Last week, lawmakers set the election for March 17, and Putin's tight control over the political system makes his reelection all but assured.