Medvedev Announcement

Vladimir Putin officially endorsed Dmitry Medvedev as his presidential successor on December 10, 2007. Medvedev was not only Putin's First Deputy Prime Minister, but has reportedly been a close friend of the president for years.International Herald Tribune: Putin backs Medvedev as his successor (December 10, 2007)

Dmitry Medvedev came from a mostly academic background and lacked significant experience in national government. Putin's endorsement aided in Medvedev's successful campaign in the 2008 presidential election. Medvedev won over 70% of the popular vote, defeating the runner-up by more than a 50% margin.Russian Central Election Commission: Official 2008 Presidential Election Results

• Google News: Medvedev Announcement
• BBC News: Putin Sees Medvedev As Successor (December 10, 2007)
  • Commenting on the choice, Mr Putin said: "I have known him for more than 17 years, I have worked with him very closely all these years, and I fully and completely support this candidacy".
• New York Times: "Putin Supports First Deputy As Successor "
• Radio Free Europe: Putin Declares Medvedev His Preferred Successor (December 10, 2007)
• Reuters: Putin anoints ally Medvedev for presidency (December 10, 2007)
• RTT News: Putin Supports Dmitry Medvedev As His Successor (December 10, 2007)
• International Herald Tribune: "Putin Backs Medvedev As His Successor" (December 10, 2007)

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