Chile’s José Antonio Kast Elected President, Signaling Sharp Rightward Turn in Politics

Chile’s presidential election on December 14, 2025, marked a decisive shift to the right as ultra-conservative candidate José Antonio Kast was elected with 58% of the vote, defeating leftist rival Jeannette Jara, who received 42%. This result is one of the most significant political realignments in post-dictatorship Chilean history, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the previous four years of leftist governance and growing concerns over crime and immigration.

Kast’s victory followed a campaign centered on restoring security, curbing illegal immigration, and promoting economic reforms. He pledged to implement an “emergency government” focused on strict immigration enforcement, border security, and significant cuts to public spending. His campaign also emphasized deregulation and tax cuts to stimulate economic growth, a stark contrast to the policies of outgoing President Gabriel Boric, whose administration faced criticism over sluggish economic performance and political instability.

The election was the third time Kast ran for president. His previous defeat in 2021 by Boric did not deter him, as he adjusted his campaign to resonate more with mainstream voters. Kast notably tempered his conservative social positions—such as his opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage—while sharpening his critiques of Boric’s leadership and policies. This strategic shift, along with his strong anti-crime and anti-migration messaging, proved effective in mobilizing a broad coalition of voters.

Kast’s win is part of a broader regional trend in Latin America. In recent years, right-wing and center-right leaders have gained power in countries including Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Bolivia. These outcomes reflect a growing public desire for stability, security, and economic confidence in the region. Kast’s election is expected to strengthen this trend and may reinforce his growing international connections with leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele.

From a policy perspective, Kast’s agenda includes sweeping changes in public security, immigration, and economic management. He has proposed the creation of a specialized immigration enforcement force, the deportation of undocumented migrants, and the deployment of military personnel in high-crime areas. Additionally, he has pledged to cut corporate taxes and reduce public spending while maintaining social benefits. Analysts say these plans will test Kast’s ability to navigate a divided Congress, where neither left nor right holds a clear majority.

The economic implications of Kast’s victory have already begun to manifest. Investors are cautiously optimistic about the prospect of pro-market reforms and a more predictable policy environment. Chile, as the world’s largest copper producer and a key lithium producer, is seen as a strategic asset in global energy transitions. A return to fiscal discipline and regulatory simplicity could attract foreign capital and stabilize long-term economic confidence.

However, Kast faces immediate challenges. His lack of executive experience and a fragmented political landscape may hinder his ability to pass major reforms. Additionally, his alignment with conservative social policies could clash with public sentiment, particularly on issues like abortion and immigration, where popular opinion is mixed.

The election was also notable for its high voter turnout, as the new mandatory voting law ensured near-universal participation. This law, introduced to boost democratic engagement, forced voters to choose between candidates, many of whom they viewed as extreme alternatives. The result was a vote based more on rejection of the status quo than on strong support for either candidate.

Kast is scheduled to be sworn in as president on March 11, 2026. In the lead-up to the inauguration, he will need to demonstrate his ability to unify a divided nation, manage complex economic and social challenges, and fulfill the promises that brought him to power.