Abelardo de la Espriela Set to Become Colombia’s President

Abelardo de la Espriela, a right-wing lawyer and businessman with dual U.S. citizenship, has garnered support from former President Donald Trump and is on track to become Colombia’s next president.

He narrowly secured victory over leftist senator Ivan Cepeda in the presidential runoff held on June 21. De la Espriela has focused heavily on issues like crime and the economy during his campaign, vowing to take a hardline stance against drug cartels and guerrilla groups. His approach stands in stark contrast to the policies of Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president.

“The Trump Administration looks forward to collaborating with the new administration on enhancing regional security cooperation and addressing illegal immigration while strengthening economic ties. Colombia has a bright future ahead,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently.

Cepeda, on the other hand, has promised to uphold Petro’s policy framework, including state pensions for the underprivileged, support for labor unions, and a halt on new oil projects. He aims to continue peace negotiations with groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and the National Liberation Army.

De la Espriela’s election marks a significant shift in the Trump administration’s strategy against drug trafficking. He stated in an interview that he won’t entertain any peace processes for criminals who refuse to comply with the law. “I will do whatever it takes within the boundaries of the law to save and revitalize Colombia,” he noted, conveying his determination to combat the rampant drug trade and violence in the country.

To address these challenges, de la Espriela has proposed building ten new mega-prisons and has expressed support for U.S. military airstrikes on suspected drug traffickers in South American waters. He also advocates for Colombia joining a coalition aimed at fighting drug cartels.

Colombia joins a growing list of Latin American nations that have recently elected center-right or right-leaning leaders. Following the changes initiated during the Trump administration, left-leaning governments in countries like Bolivia and Honduras have found themselves at a disadvantage in elections.

Originally from Miami, Florida, de la Espriela obtained U.S. citizenship in 2023 while also holding Italian and Colombian citizenship.