Chile has elected José Antonio Kast as its new president following a decisive runoff election on Sunday. The ultra-conservative Republican Party candidate secured a substantial victory with over 58% of the vote, defeating leftist contender Jeannette Jara who garnered approximately 41%. This electoral outcome represents the most significant political realignment in Chile since the end of Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship in 1990.
The presidential race proceeded to a second round after the November 16th, 2025 initial election failed to produce an absolute majority winner. Kast, who qualified as the second-place finisher in the first round, ultimately triumphed over Jara despite her endorsement from the incumbent left-wing government.
Kast’s successful campaign centered on three core issues: public security, immigration control, and economic recovery plans. These themes resonated strongly with Chilean voters amid growing concerns about crime rates and migration patterns. His victory signals a pronounced rightward turn in a nation that has been governed predominantly by center-left coalitions for three decades.
Constitutional protocols dictate that Kast will not assume office immediately. The presidential inauguration is scheduled for March 11, 2026, when he will succeed current President Gabriel Boric following a standard transition period.
While Kast’s administration is expected to implement substantial policy changes regarding public safety and immigration, governing may prove challenging without an absolute congressional majority. This political reality may necessitate negotiation and compromise to advance his complete legislative agenda.