The election of Laura Fernández extends Costa Rica’s populist experiment. Its democracy will weather it, for now, two experts write.
The right-wing, tough-on-crime president-elect will have a legislative majority and promises “deep and irreversible” change.
Laura Fernández, President Rodrigo Chaves’ former chief-of-staff, is polling high enough to potentially avoid a runoff. Ticos vote on February 1.
Laura Fernández, running to continue President Rodrigo Chaves’ agenda, may win in the first round of a February 1 election marked by insecurity woes.
Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Haiti, and Peru plan to elect presidents in 2026. Learn about candidates and issues in each country.
Public security tops voters’ concerns ahead of the February 1 election.
The country is experiencing an unprecedented security crisis ahead of the February 2026 election.