A conservative presidential candidate in Colombia has experienced a significant boost in voter support during the final week before the country’s upcoming election, positioning him as the likely winner should a runoff become necessary.
According to the most recent AtlasIntel survey published Saturday – the final polling data before Colombia’s May 31 election – leftist candidate Ivan Cepeda maintains a narrow advantage with 38.7% support, while right-wing businessman Abelardo De La Espriella follows closely at 37.3%.
Despite trailing in the initial vote count, polling data suggests De La Espriella would prevail in a head-to-head runoff scenario, capturing 50% compared to Cepeda’s 41.3%.
The polling results come from 4,531 interviews conducted from May 18 through May 21. During the campaign’s final week, De La Espriella experienced a notable 4-point increase from the previous AtlasIntel survey, while Cepeda saw a modest 1-point rise.
Centro Democratico Party candidate Paloma Valencia, representing the right-wing faction, holds third place with 14.3% of voter preferences, dropping slightly more than 2 points. Polling indicates she would also defeat Cepeda in a runoff matchup, earning 44.6% versus his 41.5%.
Different Paths Forward for the Nation
Cepeda has committed to building upon the policies established by current President Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist leader, by expanding social programs aimed at addressing inequality and continuing diplomatic efforts with illegal armed organizations.
In contrast, De La Espriella has promised to halt such negotiations while adopting an aggressive approach toward criminal activity and narcotics trafficking, providing support for private investment and business development, and strengthening the nation’s mining and energy industries.
Valencia has outlined plans to increase military and police forces, initiate aggressive campaigns against criminal organizations and guerrilla groups, support business growth, and reduce taxation.
These opposition campaign platforms would represent a significant departure from Petro’s current administration. The former M19 rebel leader halted new petroleum and natural gas exploration permits as part of his initiative to transition the nation toward more environmentally sustainable energy alternatives.
Petro’s four-year presidency concludes in August. Should no candidate secure more than half of the valid ballots from the 41 million registered voters, a runoff election between the top two finishers will take place on June 21.
