Trump-endorsed conservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella emerged ahead in Colombia’s presidential runoff, according to preliminary results reported by CNN. With 99.91% of votes counted, de la Espriella secured 49.65% of the vote, narrowly leading government-backed leftist candidate Iván Cepeda, who received 47.81%.
De la Espriella declared victory and said the outcome would mark a historic turning point for Colombia. President Donald Trump congratulated the candidate on social media, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled Washington’s willingness to work with a future de la Espriella administration.
However, outgoing President Gustavo Petro and Cepeda urged caution, noting that the official tally remains pending. Cepeda's campaign said it was challenging results from thousands of polling stations.
According to the report, the election centered on rising concerns over crime, security, economic growth, healthcare, and Colombia’s relationship with neighboring Venezuela.
A de la Espriella victory would likely shift the country sharply to the right, strengthen ties with the United States, and bring a tougher approach toward criminal organizations and illegal immigration.
Related Tweet:
Colombian right-wing candidate Abelardo De La Espriella has clinched a narrow victory in presidential election, according to an initial ballot count, as voters bet on his promise of a crackdown on crime https://t.co/CVMylJCFRq pic.twitter.com/8LPR5dBPON
— Reuters (@Reuters) June 22, 2026
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
