In September 2021, the New People party won enough votes to claim seats in the lower house of Russia’s parliament, despite being founded just 18 months earlier. For the first time in 15 years, five parties secured representation in the State Duma instead of the usual four. Created with the Kremlin’s backing, New People was designed to attract the liberal urban electorate. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the party has clung to its image as the home of so-called “common sense” voters. Its lawmakers avoid endorsing the war but also steer clear of opposing it. They campaign against migrants, advocate lifting bans on various social networks, and go to great lengths to transform their initiatives into viral sensations. Meduza special correspondent Andrey Pertsev explains how New People’s liberal image clashes with its consistent support for the Kremlin’s key legislation.