Chile has elected the far-right wing José Antonio Kast to be its next president, after an election campaign that was dominated by themes of security, immigration, and crime. Kast beat the governing left-wing coalition candidate Jeanette Jara decisively with more than 58% of the vote in his third attempt at running for president. It marks the biggest shift to the right since the end of Chile's military dictatorship in 1990. Kast has openly praised Chile's former right-wing dictator, Augusto Pinochet.
In his first speech to supporters as president-elect, Kast stated, Chile will once again be free from crime, free from anguish, free from fear. He declared a strong approach towards tackling crime, promising to target criminals and ensure their incarceration. Celebrations erupted among Kast's supporters, who remained hopeful about restoring safety and national pride.
Throughout his campaign, Kast painted Chile as a nation in turmoil, promising to manage immigration policies more strictly and implement significant cuts in public spending. His far-right ideologies align closely with those of several global leaders, including Donald Trump, indicating a new era for Chilean politics.
Despite concerns over a potential return to a past marked by authoritarian rule, many voters supported Kast, motivated by perceived insecurity within the country. Meanwhile, Jara's concession acknowledged the public's call for change amidst differing opinions about Kast's controversial policies and legacy. Kast's presidency is being keenly watched as he prepares to assume office on March 11, 2026.
In his first speech to supporters as president-elect, Kast stated, Chile will once again be free from crime, free from anguish, free from fear. He declared a strong approach towards tackling crime, promising to target criminals and ensure their incarceration. Celebrations erupted among Kast's supporters, who remained hopeful about restoring safety and national pride.
Throughout his campaign, Kast painted Chile as a nation in turmoil, promising to manage immigration policies more strictly and implement significant cuts in public spending. His far-right ideologies align closely with those of several global leaders, including Donald Trump, indicating a new era for Chilean politics.
Despite concerns over a potential return to a past marked by authoritarian rule, many voters supported Kast, motivated by perceived insecurity within the country. Meanwhile, Jara's concession acknowledged the public's call for change amidst differing opinions about Kast's controversial policies and legacy. Kast's presidency is being keenly watched as he prepares to assume office on March 11, 2026.
