As Mexico gears up for its upcoming 2012 presidential elections, an AS/COA panel explored the country’s economic prospects, market competitiveness, and overall political environment.

Voters head to the polls October 30 for Colombia’s local elections. The country’s three biggest cities—Bogota, Medellin, and Cali—are holding fiercely fought mayoral competitions.

Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner accomplished what was widely expected on Sunday when she cruised to a reelection win.

Early results from Bolivia's October 16 judicial elections indicate large-scale voiding of ballots. Observers say the vote amounts to the first electoral rebuff of President Evo Morales since he took office.

Puerto Rico’s governor introduced legislation that will likely lead to a two-step referendum in 2012 on the island’s territorial status. But it remains to be seen whether the political will to back a status change exists in Puerto Rico or Washington.

Opposition candidates and leaders signed a pact September 26 to support the candidate who wins Venezuela’s February presidential primary. The victor is slated to face President Hugo Chávez in the October 2012 election.

Retired General Otto Pérez Molina placed well ahead of his rivals in the September 11 vote. He will face Manuel Baldízon in a November 6 runoff for Guatemala's presidency.