Don't fall for Russia's 'Paris Hilton'

Russia’s presidential election will take place on March 18 — but don’t expect any surprises. Despite the presence of eight candidates on the ballot, one clearly stands out: the incumbent Vladimir Putin. After almost two decades of consolidating his power, he is essentially guaranteed to retain the position.

The candidate listed directly below him on the ballot is Ksenia Sobchak, who is notorious in Russia but virtually unknown in the United States (despite a recent visit here). Dubbed “Russia’s Paris Hilton” from her past career as a reality TV show host, she is now running for the Russian presidency as an opposition candidate. But let this be known: America should not be fooled by her.