The election this summer will help determine whether Iran’s fractures—at home and abroad—can be repaired through moderation and compromise, or whether the regime will continue to sustain itself through coercion. Shariatmadari, the Supreme Leader’s representative, said that he had no doubt that Ahmadinejad would be reëlected. “He has a special place among the masses—especially among the masses,” he said. “Others will come against him, but none can compete with Ahmadinejad.”
