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An economic crisis and political infighting among the country’s long-dominant socialist party could pave the way for the first right-wing president in decades.
Aug. 17, 2025, 5:01 a.m. ET
Bolivia is holding a presidential election on Sunday that many analysts expect will end the 20-year dominance of the ruling socialist party, possibly returning the country to the right.
The election comes amid an economic crisis, with many voters frustrated with the socialist project that once drew broad support.
For two decades, Bolivian politics have been defined by the Movement for Socialism party, known by its Spanish acronym, MAS, led by Evo Morales, a former union leader. Mr. Morales was elected in 2005 as Bolivia’s first Indigenous president in a nation long dominated by a wealthy, white elite.
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But this year, two right-wing politicians — a center-right businessman, Samuel Doria Medina, and a conservative former president, Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga — are leading the polls. In a crowded field of eight, neither is expected to win a majority of votes, most likely forcing a runoff in October.
Here is what to know as Bolivians head to the polls.
Why is this election important?
This is the first time since 2002 that Mr. Morales or a Morales stand-in will not be on the ballot.
