US President Donald Trump's open support for right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella in Colombia has intensified the election race in the country. While the endorsement was welcomed by a segment of right-wing voters, it sparked debates over sovereignty and foreign interference on the left.
Following Trump's statement on his own social media platform earlier this month, de la Espriella's lead in the first round became one of the most notable developments in the campaign. Within the right-wing bloc, this support was seen as a sign that strengthened the candidate's position.
Right-wing voters welcome the support
Supporters of de la Espriella shared messages on social media thanking Trump. The right-wing candidate reportedly responded by promising to establish a broader alliance and agreement network between Washington and Bogotá.
Conservative circles in Colombia also viewed this move as an additional strength for their candidate. Especially those close to former President Álvaro Uribe considered Trump's stance a political signal that could benefit their campaign.
Left-wing reacts against foreign interference
On the opposing side, the reaction was strong. President Gustavo Petro and leftist candidate Iván Cepeda described Trump's support as external interference in the election. Some voters supporting Cepeda's campaign shared this perspective.
Volunteers conducting election work on the streets of Bogotá believe this endorsement could influence voter behavior. Their main concern goes beyond the direct statement to the potential involvement of significant financial and media power.
Sovereignty and independence debate comes to the forefront
Some left-wing voters in the election arena do not see this merely as a statement of support. For them, such moves raise questions about how independently Colombia can make its own political decisions.
Academic assessments also suggest that Trump's stance is better understood as political influence rather than direct interference. According to this view, the support is not a material intervention like funding or pressure but a signal indicating which candidate Washington sees as closer to its strategic interests.
Washington's approach to Latin America
Trump's attitude recalls similar support he has given to right-wing candidates in other Latin American elections. Recent endorsements of some right-wing politicians in Argentina, Honduras, and Chile have reopened discussions about the US administration's priorities in the region.
Experts note that Washington places special emphasis on issues such as security, migration, energy, and the influence of China, Russia, and Iran in the region. Tensions with countries like Colombia, Brazil, and Mexico are also seen as part of this strategic approach.
The second round in Colombia will be held on June 21. President Petro urged voters not to heed Trump's call and to maintain their own political choices at the ballot box.
