Iran's presidential election on Friday saw record-low voter turnout, signaling widespread disillusionment with the country's clerical rule. The runoff on July 5 will feature a reformist former health minister, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, and an ultraconservative former nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili. Despite their differences, neither candidate is expected to bring significant change, as Iran's supreme leader holds ultimate authority. The low voter turnout reflects Iranians' rejection of the ruling establishment, blaming it for economic woes and social and political restrictions. Even in the 2013 election, hope for change through a reformist candidate was dashed when the nuclear deal was nullified by President Trump. After the 2021 election of a hard-liner, Ebrahim Raisi, social freedoms eroded, leading to widespread protests. The upcoming runoff presents skepticism among voters about any candidate's ability to bring real change, with many disillusioned with the current government. The ruling establishment appears to favor Jalili, aligned with the supreme leader's hard-line views. However, the president can influence social restrictions, economic policy, and foreign and nuclear policy. The election outcome will impact Iran's role in the Middle East crisis and its nuclear program. Iran's involvement in conflicts in Gaza and support for Hezbollah have raised tensions with Israel. Additionally, Iran's nuclear program remains a point of contention, especially after the U.S. withdrawal from the original nuclear deal. The next president will have a significant influence on these critical issues.