Chile votes in polarized election after campaign focused on immigration and crime World Nov 16, 2025 1:12 PM EST

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Chileans voted for a new president and parliament on Sunday in a contest expected to favor the hard right as candidates play on popular fears over organized crime and immigration.

It’s the first of what’s likely to be two rounds of presidential elections in the South American country, as polls show none of the candidates clearing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff scheduled for Dec. 14. It’s also Chile’s first presidential election since voting became mandatory and the registration of voters automatic, with over 15.7 million people obliged to vote.

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