Chile has elected José Antonio Kast as its next president following a decisive victory in the second round of the country’s presidential election, signaling a major political shift after four years of left-leaning governance.
With nearly all votes counted, Kast secured close to 58 percent of the national vote, defeating Jeannette Jara, a former labor minister and candidate backed by the governing center-left coalition. Jara received roughly 42 percent and acknowledged the outcome shortly after results became clear, congratulating Kast and urging respect for democratic institutions.
The run-off election, held under compulsory voting rules for the first time in over a decade, drew millions of Chileans to the polls. Voter turnout was significantly higher than in previous elections, reflecting widespread public concern over security, migration, and economic stability.
A Campaign Focused on Law and Order
Kast, 59, leads the conservative Republican Party and ran on a platform centered on public safety and border enforcement. Throughout the campaign, he pledged tougher criminal penalties, expanded use of high-security prisons, and stronger measures to combat organized crime. He also proposed stricter controls on illegal immigration, particularly along Chile’s northern border.
Social issues were another defining aspect of the campaign. Kast maintained a firm opposition to abortion and positioned himself as a defender of traditional values, while seeking to broaden his appeal beyond his core conservative base during the run-off period.
This was Kast’s third attempt at the presidency, following previous defeats, including a loss in the 2021 election. His victory marks his first national electoral win.
Shift After Boric Era
The election outcome represents a clear change in direction after the presidency of Gabriel Boric, whose administration faced declining approval amid rising crime rates, economic pressures, and public dissatisfaction. Boric was unable to seek re-election due to constitutional term limits.
Although Jara led the first round of voting in November, Kast gained momentum by consolidating support from other right-leaning parties and undecided voters ahead of the second round.
Regional and International Response
Kast’s win has drawn attention across Latin America, where several countries have recently elected conservative leaders. Political figures from neighboring nations welcomed the result, describing it as a sign of shifting voter priorities in the region.
Internationally, governments expressed interest in continued cooperation with Chile on trade, security, and regional stability as the country prepares for its next administration.
