Colombia's Presidential Race Heads to Runoff Between Leftist Cepeda and Right-Wing de la Espriella
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Colombians voted on Sunday in the first round of a presidential election viewed as a referendum on outgoing President Gustavo Petro's policies. With no candidate securing 50% of the vote, the top two finishers—leftist Senator Iván Cepeda and right-wing outsider Abelardo de la Espriella—will compete in a June runoff. The election follows a campaign marked by the fatal shooting of a candidate last year.
Facts First
- The presidential election heads to a June runoff between leftist Senator Iván Cepeda and right-wing lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella.
- The first round vote was held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, with 14 candidates on the ballot.
- The election is seen as a referendum on the policies of outgoing President Gustavo Petro.
- Cepeda, an ally of Petro, proposes continuing the 'total peace' initiative to negotiate with remaining rebel groups.
- De la Espriella and another candidate, Paloma Valencia, have expressed affinity for U.S. President Donald Trump.
What Happened
Colombians cast ballots on Sunday, May 31, 2026, in the first round of a presidential election. The results confirmed that no candidate received the required 50% of the vote. Consequently, the top two finishers—leftist Senator Iván Cepeda and right-wing lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella—are set to compete in a runoff election in June. The campaign has been conducted in the shadow of the fatal shooting of 39-year-old presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay at a political rally in June 2025.
Why this Matters to You
The outcome of the June runoff will determine the direction of Colombia's domestic and foreign policy. If you have family, business interests, or travel plans connected to Colombia, the election result could influence the country's stability and its approach to ongoing peace negotiations. The stark policy differences between the candidates mean the election's result may also affect Colombia's relationship with the United States and other international partners.
What's Next
The two candidates will now campaign for the decisive runoff election scheduled for June. The contest is likely to focus heavily on contrasting visions for Colombia's future, particularly regarding the continuation of President Petro's 'total peace' initiative and the country's economic and foreign policy direction.