Colombians Vote in Polarized Presidential Runoff Between Conservative and Leftist Candidates
Colombians voted in a closely contested presidential runoff on June 21, 2026, choosing between conservative Abelardo de la Espriella and leftist Ivan Cepeda, ally of outgoing President Gustavo Petro. De la Espriella campaigned on a tough security approach, including ending peace talks and boosting the oil sector, with support from former US President Donald Trump. Cepeda pledged to continue Petro's policies focused on dialogue with armed groups and social reforms. The election reflects deep political divisions amid concerns over violence, economic challenges, and public debt, with a tight race and high voter polarization.