The campaign has in many ways been a traditional right-left battle. The Social Democrats have sought to portray themselves as reliable custodians of Finland’s extensive welfare state, making clear they are willing to raise taxes to maintain public services. [...]
Rinne's fortunes contrast with those of Prime Minister Juha Sipilä, whose attempts at cost-cutting and privatization foundered amid a public outcry and stiff opposition in parliament. In March, Sipilä, leader of the Center Party, resigned after abandoning plans for an overhaul of social welfare and health care. He stayed on as PM in a caretaker capacity. [...]
If the Social Democrats do win, it's not clear whom they would team up with to form a government. The smaller Greens and the Left Party are likely allies, or the Social Democrats could choose either the Center Party or the NCP, according to analysts. [...]
A win for the Social Democrats would be a rare event in Europe, as center-left parties have faced a steep decline in polls in many countries across the bloc. If Rinne becomes prime minister he would be following in the footsteps of fellow ex-union leader Stefan Löfven, who secured a second term as prime minister in neighboring Sweden earlier this year.
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