Laura Fernández, the candidate for the governing conservative Sovereign People's Party, has won the presidential election in Costa Rica. With more than 88% of the votes counted, Fernández secured over 48% of the votes, significantly ahead of her closest competitor, Álvaro Ramos, who has conceded defeat. Her campaign was focused on a tough-on-crime approach, continuing the policies of the current President Rodrigo Chaves, who endorsed her as his successor. Concerns over a rise in drug-related violence in Costa Rica played a significant role in the election, demonstrating voters' desire for stringent policies. The size of her vote share eliminated the need for a run-off, making her election decisive. Fernández will officially assume office on May 8 and has indicated that she will continue the tough crime policies established by her predecessor, including possibly incorporating strategies similar to those of El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, who has received praise for his aggressive approach to crime. In her victory speech, she emphasized her commitment to governance based on dialogue and adherence to the rule of law, while also addressing criticisms regarding potential impacts on civil rights. With her party holding a majority in parliament, she is expected to face fewer challenges in implementing her policies than Chaves did.