Colombia’s presidential election is heading to a runoff. Left-wing senator Iván Cepeda and far-right newcomer Abelardo de la Espriella advanced from a crowded first round, with polling predicting a close contest. The June 21 vote will determine the direction of a nation grappling with security and peace accords.
The election has been widely framed as a referendum on outgoing President Gustavo Petro’s leftist social policies. A decade after the historic peace pact with FARC guerrillas, voters are split between those who want to continue negotiations with armed groups and those favoring a harsher crackdown. Security has emerged as the top issue.
Surveys had suggested a tight three-way race that included a veteran leftist, a right-wing senator, and an independent businessman. The results narrowed the field to Cepeda—who promises to pursue peace accords—and de la Espriella, a Trump-aligned lawyer who advocates a harder line against guerrilla groups. Official vote tallies are still being confirmed.
The outcome could reshape Colombia’s relations with the United States, especially if de la Espriella wins. His campaign has drawn comparisons to Donald Trump, raising questions about diplomatic shifts. Both campaigns are now pivoting to the runoff, with security and economic policy expected to dominate the debate.
Some analysts warn that the polarizing race may deepen social divisions, but others note that Colombians are eager for clear solutions to decades of conflict. The closing weeks will test each candidate's ability to broaden their appeal beyond their bases.