Colombian presidential candidate Paloma Valencia has seen a significant increase in voting intention, according to a new poll, positioning her in third place behind frontrunner Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella.
A recent poll released by GAD3 reveals notable changes in the landscape of Colombia's presidential race ahead of the elections scheduled for May 31. Leftist senator Iván Cepeda maintains the lead with 35% of the voting intention, an increase of one percentage point since February. His party, Pacto Histórico, is closely aligned with the current president, Gustavo Petro, reflecting a solid base of support amidst a volatile political climate.
The most significant shift highlighted in the poll is the rise of right-wing candidate Paloma Valencia from a mere 4% in February to an impressive 16% in the latest survey, positioning her as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections. This surge suggests a growing appetite for alternative candidates outside the traditional leftist and ultra-right wing options, possibly driven by changing public sentiments and concerns about the direction of the country.
Abelardo de la Espriella, who represents the ultra-right movement Defensores de la Patria, stands at 21%, showcasing a slight decline from previous polls. As the election approaches, the dynamics among these candidates indicate a more competitive race than previously anticipated, with the potential for impactful changes in Colombia’s political scene depending on voter turnout and preferences in the coming weeks.
