National-populist Jose Antonio Kast has been declared the winner in Chile’s run-off election. Indeed, against all odds and expectations, he has solidified his position as this country’s 38th president. In that election, the far-right candidate—the Republican Party’s nominee—won decisively. They unseated former Labour Minister Jeannette Jara, a member of the Communist Party. Kast went on to win nearly 58 percent of the vote. His election represents a radical break with the past of Chilean politics.
This run-off followed the first round of voting back on November 16th. In that election round, Kast came in second, winning about 23.9 percent of the vote. His victory reflects a growing support base for his hard-right platform, which he has sought to moderate to appeal to a broader audience. He’ll be sworn in formally on March 11th.
A Campaign for Change
Kast’s success was driven by a smart campaign that promised change, appealing to voters tired and angry over the status quo’s political games. His rhetoric zeroed in on the topics of crime and economic order, emphasizing both the chaos and fear many Chileans now contend with everyday. In his victory address he pledged to make lives better for all of the people, not just some.
“Today, while criminals and drug traffickers walk freely through the streets, committing crimes and intimidating people, honest Chileans are locked in their homes, paralyzed by fear,” – Jose Antonio Kast
Kast’s campaign played up a tough on crime approach and rhetoric about just wanting a better community and safer neighborhoods. He aimed to present himself as a candidate who could bring about real change and address concerns that have dominated public discourse in recent years.
Jara, acknowledging the election outcome, stated, “Democracy has spoken loud and clear. I have just spoken with President-elect Kast to wish him success for the good of Chile.” This powerful statement highlighted the need to uphold democratic processes, despite political disagreements.
Political Background and Controversies
Kast’s political career has largely been defined by his far-right streak and his controversial support for former dictator General Augusto Pinochet. He unapologetically defends the Pinochet government. His remarks play directly into the strong feelings of those who believe that era was a good thing. His father, Michael Martin Kast, immigrated to the United States from Germany. He had significant ties to the Nazi Party, which makes his family’s legacy even more complicated.
During his campaign, Kast famously remarked, “If Pinochet were alive, he would vote for me.” This statement has received a firestorm of both criticism and praise, indicative of the divided opinions around his candidacy. It’s his hard-right stances on social issues that has touched off a firestorm. This is particularly so with his position regarding abortion—he believes it should be illegal even for those conceived through rape.
His likely leadership style and past Republican affiliations notwithstanding, significant questions remain about how he will choose to govern. What observers fear though is his ideological tilt may be overmatched by the demands of a highly ideological, but very pragmatic, electorate.
Regional Implications and Future Prospects
Kast’s election is seen as part of a broader trend in Latin American politics, where right-wing candidates are gaining traction. Fellow right-wing politician Javier Milei expressed “enormous joy at the overwhelming victory of my friend Jose Antonio Kast,” framing it as a win for freedom against socialism in the region.
Daniel Noboa, commenting on the election results, stated that “a new era is beginning for Chile and for the region.” These feelings are rooted in the belief that Kast’s new administration will inspire other regional countries who are struggling with this political tide.
As he gets ready to assume office, expectation and responsibility are staring Kast in the face. He has to do so in a deeply divided political landscape, under pressure to deliver on his promises and improve citizens’ security as well as economic prospects. How his anti-establishment style manifests itself on a governance level will be monitored not only in Chile, but by the world.
“To those who supported us and were inspired by our candidacy, rest assured that we will continue working to build a better life in our country. Together and standing strong, as we always have,” – Jose Antonio Kast
