Greece's Tsipras stays popular despite bailout hardship

[...] the telegenic prime minister is more popular than ever — testament to how his defiance of Europe has struck a chord with a nation fed up with sacrifices imposed from outside.

The 40-year-old has an approval rating of nearly 60 percent, more than 10 points clear of his closest rival — leading to speculation about a possible snap election in the fall.

Tsipras' Syriza party was elected in January on a promise to end austerity, forming a coalition with the right-wing, anti-bailout Independent Greeks party — a move that broadened his political influence.

There are currently few alternatives to his charismatic leadership, as opposition parties remain in transition after losing popular support over the austerity measures they imposed.

Uncertainty also swirls around the future of Tsipras' Syriza party, which is now fractured among those who back Tsipras and the bailout deal and more radical elements which reject the pact outright.

[...] Tani, the Athens outfitter to the priests, said Tsipras benefits largely from what seems like the sole prerequisite for Greek politicians these days to be successful: to look good on television.

[...] she said, that's because "they're all disposable."