Colombians are set to vote this Sunday in an election viewed as a significant trial for the Latin American left, at a time when right-wing leaders are gaining influence across the region. This trend has been partially attributed to the backing of President Trump.
As the election campaign comes to a close, polls indicate a decisive contest between the left and the far right. On the left is Iván Cepeda, a scholarly senator promising continuity with current President Gustavo Petro. Mr. Petro is known for his outspoken nature and frequent clashes with Mr. Trump. His term is constrained to a single period.
Credit: Nathalia Angarita for The New York Times
If Mr. Cepeda succeeds, Colombia would join major Latin American countries still governed by leftist leaders. This includes Mexico and Brazil, the latter of which also faces an essential election this year.
On the opposition side is Abelardo De La Espriella, a brisk-talking lawyer with no prior elected experience. His sharp rhetoric and plans to construct 10 mega-prisons have drawn parallels to Nayib Bukele, El Salvador’s polarizing leader who has been a Trump ally. Mr. De La Espriella’s campaign recently concluded with an event in Medellín.
Another contender is Paloma Valencia, a conservative senator who could become Colombia’s first female president. Despite support from the influential former President Álvaro Uribe and other political heavyweights, Ms. Valencia, 48, appeared to fall behind Mr. De La Espriella in the campaign’s latter stages.
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