Ahead of September 9, Russian election commissions ask local tourist agencies for voters' travel plans

Election commissions in regions across Russia have reportedly mailed letters to local travel agencies asking for information about clients planning to be away from their home cities on September 9, when 22 different regions hold elections. Irina Tyurina, the press secretary for the Russian Travel Industry Union told the news agency Interfax that election commissions want to know clients’ names, birthdates, and addresses before September 1.

Tyurina says the commissions lack the authority to request this information, and she points out that travel agencies would be breaking the law if they handed over personal data without their clients’ consent.

On September 9, voters in 22 regions across Russia will elect mayors and local legislative assembly deputies. Seven regions are also holding special elections for seats in the State Duma.