SANTIAGO, Chile – Chileans are voting today, November 17, 2025, in a presidential runoff election pitting left-wing former student leader Jeannette Jara against far-right ex-congressman José Kast. The outcome will determine the direction of the South American nation after a period of significant political and social upheaval.Polls closed at 8:00 PM local time (12:00 AM UTC November 18, 2025).
This election represents a stark choice between two fundamentally different visions for Chile. Jara, representing the Frente amplio coalition, campaigned on promises of expanding social programs, rewriting the constitution, and addressing economic inequality. Kast, running as an self-reliant, focused on law and order, restricting immigration, and preserving customary values. The election follows a tumultuous period sparked by widespread protests in 2019 over social and economic grievances,and the subsequent drafting of a new constitution which was ultimately rejected by voters in September 2023. The result will impact millions of Chileans and potentially reshape the country’s role in Latin America.
Jara and Kast emerged as the top two candidates from a crowded field in the first round of voting on October 13, 2025, neither securing the required 50% plus one vote to win outright. Jara received 35.47% of the vote,while Kast garnered 34.53%.The close results signaled a deeply polarized electorate.
The campaign leading up to the runoff has been marked by intense debate over issues such as pension reform, healthcare access, and indigenous rights. Jara has proposed a significant overhaul of the privatized pension system,while Kast advocates for strengthening private options. Both candidates have pledged to address crime, but differ on the approach, with Jara emphasizing social programs and Kast advocating for tougher policing.
Official results are expected in the coming hours. The winner will serve a four-year term, beginning March 11, 2026.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Last updated November 17, 2025 (02:10 AM CET).
