The Social Democratic Party has strengthened its position as Finland’s most popular political party, according to the latest survey results reported by Yle News. The finding gives the opposition party a clear lead in public support as the country moves closer to the next parliamentary election.

The election is still nine months away, but the new numbers offer an early snapshot of the political landscape. For parties across the spectrum, the result is a reminder that the race is already under way, even if the formal campaign has not yet begun.