Costa Rica: Ruling Party's Laura Fernández Wins Presidential Election
Is Fernández's victory a clear mandate for change or a dangerous consolidation of populist leadership?
Above: Costa Rica's President-Elect Laura Fernandez during her victory speech in San José on Feb. 1. Image credit: Marvin Recinos/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Fernández has won a solid mandate from the people of Costa Rica. Her agenda defending democracy, institutions and security will strengthen freedoms and development across the region. Latin America needs responsible leadership to overcome demagoguery and build a future of opportunities.
Government-critical narrative
It's concerning that Costa Rica has voted to concentrate power in a populist leader — Rodrigo Chaves — while its democratic institutions are under attack. Evidence from countries such as Hungary and Venezuela shows that this move undermines institutional trust rather than ending corruption.
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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.20.3