Colombia’s Trump‑Endorsed Outsider Wins Presidential Runoff

Tue Jun 23 2026 16:08:37 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Abelardo de la Espriella, a political newcomer backed by Donald Trump, narrowly secures Colombia’s presidency in a runoff that could reshape the country’s security strategy.

Abelardo de la Espriella clinched a tight runoff in Colombia, capturing 49.7% of the vote against candidate Iván Cepeda’s 48.7%. Backed by Donald Trump, de la Espriella vows a stringent military crackdown on illegal armed groups, drug trafficking and crime, marking a stark shift from President Petro’s “total peace” approach. His victory was celebrated on the streets of Barranquilla with cheers, music and yellow‑shirted supporters chanting slogans that echoed Trump’s “Make Colombia Great Again” message. The result, however, has sparked unease in the capital and other cities, as protests and clashes with police in Cali have been reported, and vocal opposition groups await official canvassing. The new administration faces challenges in navigating Colombia’s longstanding internal conflict while responding to rising violence and public pressure for enhanced security.

Abelardo de la Espriella Nabs Colombia’s Presidency After Close Runoff

A right‑wing candidate with no prior political experience, Abelardo de la Espriella has narrowly secured Colombia’s presidential runoff, claiming 49.7% of the vote against Iván Cepeda’s 48.7%. The result, announced after 99% of ballots were counted, marks a dramatic change in how the nation will confront its long‑standing armed conflict and rising violence.

De la Espriella, who was endorsed by former U.S. president Donald Trump, pledged a military crackdown on illegal armed groups, narcotrafficking and criminal networks. He has been called “El Tigre” and vows to defend the country’s 1991 constitution while restoring order and public safety.

Celebrations erupted on the streets of Barranquilla, where supporters wore the yellow Colombian football jersey, waved flags, sang anti‑government chants and watched a fireworks display. Trump reacted on social media with the headline He Won, BIG!, echoing the campaign slogan of “Make Colombia Great Again.”

Despite the win, opposition voices in the capital and in Cali have voiced concerns, citing the tight margin and calling for official verification. Protesters in Cali reportedly clashed with police, burning U.S. flags and filling the air with tear gas.

De la Espriella’s agenda promises to scrap negotiations with guerrilla groups, replace them with a harsher military strategy, and forge closer ties with the United States. He also promises to build mega‑prisons in the jungle, reduce governmental size and reform healthcare.

The outcome sets the stage for a new chapter of Colombia’s politics, with potential implications for security, international partnerships and the country’s public confidence in democratic institutions.