Uruguay's Center-Left Triumphs in Presidential Election

In a closely contested runoff election, Yamandú Orsi of the Broad Front party has emerged victorious, defeating incumbent National Party candidate Álvaro Delgado. This election marks a return to center-left leadership after a brief period of conservative governance.

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay — In a decisive shift in Uruguay's political landscape, Yamandú Orsi, a former mayor and educator, has won the presidency, defeating Álvaro Delgado of the National Party, which has led the country for the past five years. Despite ongoing ballot counting, Delgado publicly conceded defeat during a press conference.

"With sadness, but without guilt, we can congratulate the winner," remarked Delgado, acknowledging the end of the conservative administration that began with President Luis Lacalle Pou in 2020.

Official reports indicate that with approximately half of the votes tallied, Orsi had garnered a slim lead with 784,523 votes compared to Delgado's 771,434. The Broad Front party, under which Orsi campaigned, expressed their excitement over the victory, stating that “joy will return” to the nation.

Orsi’s triumph ends a brief right-leaning governance in Uruguay, a country known for its progressive policies during the previous 15 years under the Broad Front. During that era, significant reforms including the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage, and the regulated sale of marijuana were enacted.

In response to the election outcome, Lacalle Pou stated, "I called Yamandú Orsi to congratulate him as president-elect of our country," signaling his readiness to assist in a smooth transition of power. This election, marked by an amiable tone throughout the campaign, illustrates the dynamic political shifts occurring in Uruguay.