El Salvadorans Vote in Election Expected to Give Nayib Bukele Second Term as President
El Salvadorans are heading to the polls today in an election that is widely anticipated to grant Nayib Bukele a second term as president. Bukele, often referred to as the “world’s coolest dictator,” has defied the country’s constitution, which prohibits reelection. However, his supporters have largely dismissed this concern, and his popularity remains unaffected by allegations of undermining El Salvador’s system of checks and balances while addressing gang violence.
Under Bukele’s administration, more than 76,000 individuals have been arrested in a rigorous two-year crackdown on gangs. Although crime rates have drastically decreased, and Salvadorans have reclaimed their neighborhoods, the massive number of arrests has faced criticism for its lack of due process. Despite these concerns, Bukele’s tough stance on gangs has earned him fame and support.
El Salvador’s traditional political parties, both from the left and right, which initially created the void that Bukele filled in 2019, are now in disarray. Presidential candidates from the conservative Nationalist Republican Alliance (ARENA) and the leftist Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) are polling at low single-digit numbers. This indicates the significant shift in Salvadoran politics towards Bukele’s New Ideas party.
Bukele’s administration has been accused of widespread human rights abuses, but the decline in violence has overshadowed these concerns. Just a few years ago, El Salvador was known as one of the most dangerous countries globally. Today, however, violence has plummeted, and citizens have embraced this newfound sense of security.
Despite accusations of undemocratic practices and power concentration, many voters have chosen to overlook these issues due to the positive impact Bukele’s policies have had on their daily lives. The fear that initially surrounded his crackdown on gangs has dissipated over time.
Interestingly, Bukele did not make any public campaign appearances leading up to the election. Instead, he relied on social media and television ads to convey his message. His main focus was to emphasize that the crackdown on gangs would be at risk if his New Ideas party did not secure victory.
As Salvadorans cast their votes today, the outcome seems almost certain. Nayib Bukele is poised to secure a second term as president, solidifying his position as a dominant force in El Salvador’s political landscape. While his methods and disregard for constitutional limits have raised concerns, his ability to effectively combat gang violence and restore a sense of security has garnered significant support from the population.
In the end, it is the people of El Salvador who will decide the future of their country. Whether Bukele’s presidency will bring long-term stability and prosperity remains to be seen. Nevertheless, his impact on El Salvador’s political landscape is undeniable, and the world will be watching closely as this election unfolds.
Bradford Betz is a Fox News Digital breaking reporter covering crime, political issues, and much more.