Cuban-American representatives María Elvira Salazar and Carlos Giménez expressed their approval this Sunday following the victory of conservative leader José Antonio Kast in Chile's presidential election. Kast, representing the Republican Party, secured a decisive win with 59.16% of the vote, surpassing communist candidate Jeannette Jara, as reported by Chile's Electoral Service (SERVEL).
Salazar took to social media platform X to extend her congratulations to the president-elect, emphasizing the clear mandate delivered by the citizens at the polls.
"Congratulations to José Antonio Kast on his victory. The people of Chile have spoken decisively. Now begins the task of restoring order, security, and opportunities throughout the nation," wrote the Republican congresswoman from Florida.
Similarly, Congressman Carlos Giménez conveyed his support for the president-elect on X, speaking from the U.S. Congress.
"From the halls of Congress, we extend our congratulations to the newly elected president of our sister nation, Chile, on his resounding victory. We look forward to collaborating closely to rid our hemisphere of communism and violence," he stated.
Kast, the founder of Chile's Republican Party, signals a shift to the right following the tenure of leftist Gabriel Boric. His platform emphasizes stringent policies on crime, immigration control, and reducing public spending, with a pledge to "restore order" to the streets.
This Chilean election has reverberated in Washington and among the Cuban-American community in South Florida, where Republican figures like Salazar and Giménez see Kast as an ideological ally in championing democratic values, free markets, and combating socialist-leaning governments across Latin America.
Implications of José Antonio Kast's Victory
What does José Antonio Kast's victory mean for Chile?
Kast's victory represents a significant political shift to the right in Chile, focusing on tougher measures against crime, tighter immigration controls, and a reduction in public spending.
How has the Cuban-American community reacted to Kast's win?
The Cuban-American community, particularly Republican figures in South Florida, has largely applauded Kast's victory, viewing him as an ally in the fight against socialism in Latin America.