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Chile's Kast Gains Support Amid Immigration Controversy

11/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

José Antonio Kast, the ultra-conservative candidate for Chile's presidency, gains support.
Voter Carlos Valdebenito Pacheco expresses unwavering support for Kast, likening him to El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele.
Kast advocates a plan to build barriers along Chile's northern border.
Critics, including center-left politician Vlado Mirosevic, say the proposals are unrealistic and risk democracy.
Immigrants fear a crackdown if Kast wins.

History

Historical Context

In 2017, Sebastián Piñera's election as president marked a conservative resurgence in Chile, following a decade of center-left governance. His administration faced rising immigration, with over 200,000 migrants entering that year, prompting strict policies. The political landscape shifted further in 2021 when Gabriel Boric, a leftist candidate, won the presidency, reflecting ongoing tensions and demands for change in Chilean society.

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Story summary

José Antonio Kast, the ultra-conservative candidate for Chile's presidency, gains support.
Voter Carlos Valdebenito Pacheco expresses unwavering support for Kast, likening him to El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele.
Kast advocates a plan to build barriers along Chile's northern border.
Critics, including center-left politician Vlado Mirosevic, say the proposals are unrealistic and risk democracy.
Immigrants fear a crackdown if Kast wins.

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