Sen. Bernie Moreno Discusses Colombia’s Presidential Candidate Abelardo de la Espriela
Senator Bernie Moreno from Ohio expressed strong support for Abelardo de la Espriela, a conservative contender in Colombia’s presidential race. He highlighted Espriela’s commitment to maintaining law and order, noting that he has earned the nickname “El Tigre” for his tough stance on drug trafficking. Moreno pointed out that while Espriela aims to imprison drug traffickers, leftist factions in Colombia tend to be more lenient towards such criminals.
“He’s fully dedicated to law and order. The aim is clear: to build a safe and secure nation that allows people to thrive. That’s a big reason they don’t seek refuge in the United States or engage in drug trafficking, which creates pathways for international criminal organizations,” Moreno stated. He further elaborated on the alternative, suggesting that leftist ideologies could lead to a surge in criminal activities.
“The other side leans into a full communism. For that to work, they need money, and they despise the private sector. It’s on track to be dismantled, but the big question remains: how will they fund their agenda? It seems they will offer safe havens for international criminals, including those involved in child and sex trafficking, along with drug dealers that feed a massive government structure while obliterating private enterprises.”
“That’s their dream—a leftist vision that could turn South America into a haven for crime and drug syndicates, which, in turn, threatens U.S. security. It’s clear that this scenario would benefit countries like China.”
Earlier in June, Espriela emerged victorious in the first round of the presidential election, garnering 43.74% of the votes. His opponent, the far-left candidate Sen. Iván Cepeda, received around 40.90%. As neither candidate surpassed the 50% threshold, a runoff is scheduled for June 21.
Former President Donald Trump endorsed Espriela prior to the runoff, calling him “a smart, strong, tough leader.” In a statement on Truth Social, Trump remarked, “Mr. Abelardo fought tirelessly for and loved our great country and its people, just as I do for the United States. As President, he will effectively lead Colombia in boosting the economy, generating jobs, fostering trade, discouraging illegal immigration, tackling crime and drugs, and restoring law and order!”
