Right-wing outsider narrowly wins Colombian presidency

Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer with no prior public office experience, has narrowly won Colombia's presidential runoff, signaling a significant shift to the right for the nation. His campaign centered on a promise to intensify the fight against drug-trafficking guerrilla groups.

With over 99 percent of votes counted, de la Espriella held an unassailable lead with 49.65 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating his left-wing rival, Senator Ivan Cepeda, who garnered 48.70 percent. The close race followed a highly contentious campaign marred by guerrilla attacks, threats against candidates, and the murder of a prominent conservative hopeful.

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The Tiger

De la Espriella, who holds dual U.S.-Colombian citizenship and refers to himself as "The Tiger," received a "complete and total endorsement" from U.S. President Donald Trump. His victory aligns with a broader trend of right-wing candidates gaining power across Latin America. De la Espriella stated he had spoken with Trump, who offered congratulations.

During the campaign, de la Espriella pledged to immediately end peace talks with dissident groups and initiate a 90-day U.S.-backed airstrike campaign against them. His presidency is expected to improve strained relations with Washington, a key provider of military aid to Colombia, but could also test the country's fragile peace process.

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complete and total endorsement