Chile Election Review
José Antonio Kast won with 58% of the vote. Breaking down who he is, what he promised, and why it matters for the region.
José Antonio Kast is a 59-year-old conservative politician and leader of the Republican Party. He won the election on December 14, 2025, taking roughly 58% of the vote in the second round. Kast is a former congressman who ran for president three times.
He is known for strong support of tough domestic policies, a strict approach to immigration and crime. By various assessments, he is associated with traditional conservatism and right-wing populism, admires certain elements of Donald Trump’s policies, and has expressed sympathy toward former dictator Augusto Pinochet — drawing criticism regarding democratic standards. His social positions include strong opposition to abortion, a critical stance on LGBTQ rights, and strict immigration control.
Campaign Themes and Promises
Security and Law Enforcement Focus on fighting crime: expanding police powers, possible military deployment in “problem zones,” and construction of new prisons.
Immigration Control A plan to create specialized forces for combating illegal immigration — inspired by the American ICE model.
Economy The program includes cutting public spending, stimulating private investment, and maintaining market-based economic principles.
Family and Cultural Values Opposition to legalizing abortion and same-sex marriage, emphasis on traditional social institutions.
Foreign Policy A tough stance on authoritarian regimes — particularly criticism of Maduro — and support for democratic freedoms.
Chile’s Economy in the Context of the Election
To keep it brief: Chile remains one of the most expensive countries in Latin America, which fuels public discontent, especially amid slowing growth. After a period of stable growth driven by export markets (particularly copper), the economy has decelerated, and issues of social equality and investment activity remain central.
Although Chile has historically been one of the safest countries in the region, residents have felt growing crime and immigration pressure in recent years — and this became the central theme of Kast’s campaign.
Kast and Milei
What’s interesting — Kast has a good relationship with Milei. Milei publicly congratulated Kast after his victory and called it a step forward for freedom and rights in Latin America, emphasizing shared values: protection of private property, freedoms, and opposition to “21st century socialism.” He described it as “one step forward for the region in defending life, liberty, and private property” and noted that Kast’s victory is part of a broad right-wing movement in Latin America, reflecting a shift in public sentiment.
Kast’s platform closely mirrors Milei’s. My personal view — I support him as a politician. It’s impossible to say exactly what kind of leader he’ll be, but one thing is certain: clearly better than any leftist.
© Seal