Digital Transformation of the Russian Regional Electoral Process: Aspects of the Introduction and the Operation of Online and Digital Technologies

Aim. To comprehensively consider both the relationship between online and offline modes in the field of transformation of the regional electoral process and the specifics of the introduction of digital technologies in the modern Russian electoral sphere at the regional level of the Russian Federation.Methodology. The research is based on universal and general scientific principles and research methods. The work uses private scientific (political science) methods such as neoinstitutional, comparative political, etc., and unique specifically sociological methods, in particular an expert focus group and expert in-depth interviews. The focus group was set up in Moscow, the federal city. Expert interviews were held in Vladimir, Alexandrov, Murom, Kolomna, Sergiev Posad, Tver, Tula, St. Petersburg, Sosnovy Bor (Leningrad Region), Pskov, Tyumen, Tobolsk, Ishim, Khanty-Mansiysk, Surgut, Ufa and Saratov. In total, 36 experts were interviewed in 12 regions, 17 cities and towns.Results. The elements of the digital political transformation process in online and offline environments have been analyzed. The influence of digital technologies on the regional political process has been shown and argued. The specifics of the introduction of digital political technologies (by the example of REV) into the regional political process are highlighted and described.Research implications. The main provisions of the work have theoretical and practical significance for further comprehensive research devoted to the specifics which the impact of digital technologies cause on the regional political process in modern Russia. The work may be useful for political consultants and political strategists since it contains an analysis of the specific features that belong to functioning of digital political technologies, especially at the regional level of the Russian Federation.