How the Iranian elections could impact the Iran nuclear deal

Digital Originals

Supporters of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani for May 19 presidential election attend a campaign rally in Tehran, Iran, Tuesday, May 9, 2017. Rouhani faces off against five challengers. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

On May 19, Iranians head to the polls to vote on a new president. Economic issues like unemployment are driving voters.

One issue on voter’s minds will be the fate of the landmark nuclear deal reached in 2015.

Current President Hassan Rouhani, considered a moderate, is running for reelection, was a major supporter of the deal, saying it would be good for the economy and could attract foreign investment in Iran.

Earlier this year, the International Monetary Fund reported Iran’s gross domestic product grew by 7.4 percent, after Iran’s oil reentered the international market.

However, a poll by Iranpoll.com found that only seven percent believe the deal had a positive impact on the economy while many believe it hasn’t lived up to its promises, which was around 72 percent.

Election watchers are also waiting to see how the election results impact U.S.- Iranian relations. U.S. President Trump, has been a staunch critic of the deal.

However, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Iran is complying with the terms of the nuclear agreement but is still sponsoring terrorism. Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif called the accusations “worn-out.”