File photo

 

Chile has elected José Antonio Kast as its next president, marking a significant rightward shift in the country's politics. Kast, running for the third time, won decisively with over 58% of the vote, defeating Jeannette Jara from the ruling left-wing coalition. Security and immigration issues dominated the election, as Kast pledged to re-establish order and combat crime.

 

Many view Kast's victory as the most significant shift to the right since the end of Chile's military dictatorship in 1990. During his campaign, Kast praised former dictator Augusto Pinochet and promised policies such as a border wall with Peru and Bolivia, mass deportations of undocumented migrants, and cuts in public spending. His critics believe he has exaggerated the issues of crime and immigration, although these topics resonated with many voters concerned about perceived insecurity.

 

Supporters celebrated Kast's win in Santiago, expressing optimism for a focus on security and patriotism. However, there are concerns that his election could signal a return to Chile's far-right past. Some voters remain skeptical of his ability to fulfill promises, particularly regarding the deportation of thousands of undocumented migrants. Despite Chile being one of the safest countries in South America, rising immigration and organised crime have become pressing issues for many.

 

With his promise of a free-market economic approach, Kast is likely to garner investor support in the future. His victory follows a trend of rightward political shifts in Latin America, with similar movements in countries like Argentina and El Salvador. Kast's inauguration is scheduled for 11 March 2026, and he has already warned undocumented immigrants to leave before his term begins if they hope to return legally in the future, reported the BBC.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• José Antonio Kast has won the Chilean presidency with over 58% of the vote.
• His campaign focused on security, immigration, and economic deregulation.
• Kast's victory aligns with a regional trend towards right-wing leadership.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-15

 

 

 

Well Javier is happy .

https://x.com/JMilei/status/2000344815540773356/photo/1

 

The right (blue) is gaining.

19 minutes ago, FlorC said:

Well Javier is happy .

https://x.com/JMilei/status/2000344815540773356/photo/1

 

The right (blue) is gaining.

In much of the western world also. 

Certainly climate change alarmism, free immigration, and stifling regulations in many areas are on the nose. 
Meanwhile Trump, that catalyst for much of this, has to prices down in the US by mid next year in readiness for the mid terms. Voters these days care more about their cost of living than the above areas combined. 

On 12/15/2025 at 8:33 AM, webfact said:

With his promise of a free-market economic approach, Kast is likely to garner investor support in the future.

A free market advocate. So he is smarter than the free market destroyer and tariff dictator.