Today, June 1, Icelanders head to the polls to vote in the presidential election. Marking this significant event, Google's homepage features a Doodle with a ballot box adorned with Iceland's national flag.

This year's election is noteworthy as the incumbent president, Gudni Th Johannesson, is not seeking re-election. A total of 12 candidates are in the running to become Iceland's next president.

In the days leading up to the election, the race has become increasingly exciting. Polls released on Thursday, May 30, show the top three candidates in a tight contest. One survey shows former Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir with a clear lead. However, another places her in second, while a third poll indicates a tie between Jakobsdottir and equality advocate Halla Tomasdottir. Tomasdottir also leads in one poll and holds second place in another. Trailing behind are Halla Hrund Logadottir and Baldur Thorhallsson, in third and fourth places respectively.

In Iceland, any individual can run for president if they secure around 1,500 supporting signatures. Initially, over 60 people began gathering signatures, and 13 succeeded in qualifying for today’s election.

Former Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir led decisively in one poll, tied with equality advocate Halla Tomasdottir in another, and ranked second in a third poll. Tomasdottir, who has a background in private equity, held one lead, one tie, and one second-place position in the polls. Halla Hrund Logadottir and Baldur Thorhallsson followed in third and fourth places, respectively, across the surveys.

Iceland, known for its frequent volcanic eruptions and breathtaking natural landscapes, faced a significant financial crisis in 2008. This crisis, accompanied by corruption scandals, led to widespread protests that captured global attention. The island nation, located in the North Atlantic Ocean between Greenland and Norway, continues to fascinate with its vibrant culture and unique history.

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