Chile votes in polarizing presidential runoff as far-right takes lead

NPRSaturday, December 13, 2025 at 7:16:53 PM
Chile votes in polarizing presidential runoff as far-right takes lead
  • Chile is set to hold a presidential runoff election featuring far-right candidate José Antonio Kast, who has garnered support from those nostalgic for the regime of former dictator Augusto Pinochet. This election follows a first round where Kast and leftist candidate Jeannette Jara emerged as the top contenders, reflecting a deeply polarized political landscape in the country.
  • The outcome of this runoff is significant as it may determine the direction of Chile's policies, particularly regarding economic reforms and social issues, amidst rising crime rates and public discontent. Kast's potential victory could signal a shift towards more conservative governance.
  • This election occurs against a backdrop of increasing tensions in the region, including immigration issues with neighboring Peru, and reflects broader debates within Chile about governance, economic strategies, and the legacy of past authoritarian rule, highlighting the ongoing struggle between leftist and rightist ideologies.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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José Antonio Kast has been elected as Chile's president, winning 58.16% of the vote in a runoff against leftist candidate Jeannette Jara. His victory has been celebrated by various right-wing leaders globally, marking a significant shift in Chile's political landscape towards ultra-conservative policies, reminiscent of the era following Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship.
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José Antonio Kast has been elected as Chile's president, marking the first far-right leadership since Augusto Pinochet's regime ended in 1990. He won 58% of the vote against moderate communist candidate Jeannette Jara, who received 42%. Kast's campaign emphasized ultra-conservative policies, reflecting a significant shift in Chile's political landscape.
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Chile has elected Jose Antonio Kast, a far-right candidate, as its next president, marking a significant political shift as he is viewed as the most right-wing leader since Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship. Kast secured 58% of the votes against leftist rival Jeannette Jara, emphasizing his campaign on anti-crime and strict immigration policies.
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Chile's far-right politician Jose Antonio Kast has won the presidential election with nearly 60% of the vote, defeating leftist candidate Jeanette Jara. This victory marks a significant political shift in Chile, as Kast's win follows two previous unsuccessful attempts at the presidency.
Who is Chile's new far-right president Jose Antonio Kast?
NeutralWorld Affairs
Chile has elected its most right-wing president in 35 years, with arch-conservative Jose Antonio Kast winning on an anti-crime and anti-immigration platform, securing 58% of the vote against leftist rival Jeannette Jara. His victory marks a significant shift in the political landscape, reminiscent of the era of former dictator Augusto Pinochet.
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Jose Antonio Kast, an ultra-conservative former congressman, has won Chile's presidential election, reflecting a significant shift in the country's political landscape as concerns over crime and immigration have propelled the electorate towards the right. His campaign emphasized strict law and order policies and plans to deport undocumented migrants.
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José Antonio Kast has been elected as Chile's president, marking the most right-wing leadership since the end of Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship. His campaign focused on ultra-conservative policies, including plans to build a border wall and expel undocumented migrants, reflecting a significant shift in the political landscape of the country.

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