José Antonio Kast of the Republican Party won Chile's presidential runoff with 58% of the votes, defeating left-wing candidate Jeannette Jara. The victory signals a rightward shift amid polarization over security and the economy.
José Antonio Kast secured 7.242.960 votes (58.17%) against Jeannette Jara's 5.208.316 (41.83%), with 99.6% of polling stations counted, surpassing Boric's 2021 record (4.621.231 votes). The Republican leader, 59, former deputy, won 14 of 19 prisons and most regional capitals except Valparaíso. Kast, who left the UDI in 2016 to found Republicans, celebrated in Santiago, emphasizing unity and an 'emergency government' focused on security, immigration, and the economy. In his speech, he thanked allies like Evelyn Matthei and urged the left to respect democracy. Jara, a moderate communist, conceded early, offering support on positive issues but firm opposition to social rollbacks. The left, led by the PC and Broad Front, called for united opposition. Internationally, congratulations from Milei and Rubio contrasted with Petro's criticisms. Analysts see Kast's win as a rejection of Boric's government, with challenges in a fragmented Congress. Kast takes office March 11, 2026, promising immediate changes amid Chile's post-2019 unrest.
