As tensions surrounding President Donald Trump 's threats toward socialist-led Venezuela draw divisive reactions across the Western Hemisphere, a new ally may soon emerge for the U.S. leader in the form a far-right presidential candidate leading the polls against a communist contender in Chile .

Chile's election, while focused first and foremost on domestic issues, speaks in many ways to a contentious ideological battle taking place across South America , a continent known for its dramatic swings across the political spectrum. And at a time where a "conservative wave" is overcoming the "pink tide" that resulted in leftist takeovers decades ago, the consequences of the vote may also be felt far beyond Chile's borders.

The stage is thus set in many ways for José Antonio Kast, a forme

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