In an interview with Globalnews.ge, International Republican Institute (IRI) Eurasia Regional Director, Stephen Nix also responds to the political attacks that are constantly heard from the management team when the organization publishes research results. IRI's Eurasia Regional Director says that "the organization enjoys high credibility and respect in all countries where it operates." 

"This is consistent with the approach IRI takes in every country where we operate. Our polling is respected, and our brand is well-established. We have consistently been able to predict the outcome of many elections in the region within the margin of error. Leaders in countries such as Moldova, Armenia, and others where we conduct polling, all respect and effectively utilize our data. Therefore, I stand by IRI's polling data 110%. While I am unsure of the intentions behind the inquiry, IRI will continue to conduct public opinion polling in Georgia and other countries where we operate because it is crucial for both governments and political parties", - said the Senior Director for Eurasia at the International Republican Institute. 

Asked whether today's Georgian voters want to join opposition forces in another part of IRI's research on opposition parties, IRI's Eurasia regional director says, "that's a decision for the opposition parties. Whether or not they choose to run individually or form some sort of coalition again, we respect whatever decisions they make. However, the data tells us that right now, there is some uncertainty, which is natural, and it suggests that this election could shape up to be very competitive".