Second Poll Confirms Fujimori's Lead Over Sánchez in Peru's Presidential Runoff

Peru is heading towards a closely contested presidential runoff, with the latest Datum poll confirming a narrow lead for right-wing candidate Keiko Fujimori over her leftist rival, Roberto Sánchez. The survey, published by El Comercio, places Fujimori at 39.5% of voter intention, a slim 3.4-point advantage over Sánchez's 36.1%. This comes just two weeks before the decisive second round, highlighting the tight race ahead.

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Fujimori, from the Fuerza Popular party, receives 39.5% of voter intention, while Sánchez of Juntos por el Perú obtains 36.1%.

The poll, conducted between May 17-20 among 1,200 individuals, reveals significant regional support bases for both candidates. Fujimori garners strong backing in Lima and Callao, the country's most populous areas, as well as in the northern regions. Conversely, Sánchez finds his strongest support in the central and eastern parts of the country, areas where calls for the release of former President Pedro Castillo, a key promise of Sánchez's campaign, resonate deeply.

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15.9% of voters indicate they will cast a blank or null vote, and 8.5% are still undecided.

This electoral landscape underscores the deep political and social divisions within Peru. The significant percentage of voters indicating they will cast a blank or null vote (15.9%) or remain undecided (8.5%) suggests that the remaining weeks of the campaign will be crucial in swaying public opinion. Both candidates' technical teams are preparing for upcoming debates, which are expected to further shape the electorate's final decision.

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Fujimori concentrates preferences with 48.8% in Lima and Callao, 41% in the north, and 33% in the eastern jungle.

From a Peruvian perspective, this election is not just about choosing a president; it's about navigating the country's complex political future. While international observers might focus on the ideological battle between left and right, for us, it's about stability, economic recovery, and addressing the deep-seated inequalities that plague our society. The outcome will significantly impact Peru's trajectory, and the narrow margin in the polls reflects the nation's uncertainty and the high stakes involved. The differing regional support also highlights the diverse priorities and concerns across our vast and varied geography.

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Sánchez's support is in the center (47.3%) and east (45.2%), followed by 44.7% in the south.