Chile Picks a Path: Security vs. Social Reform in Tense Vote

Chileans vote Sunday in a presidential runoff that highlights a national divide. The choice is between two starkly different visions for the country's future. Conservative former congressman José Antonio Kast faces center-left former minister Jeannette Jara. The campaign has been highly polarized. Kast's campaign focuses heavily on law and order and controlling immigration. He promises a strong government to fight crime. Jara emphasizes social reforms and protecting Chile's economic progress. She supports expanding public services and workers' rights. The election concludes a year of major political change. In May, voters elected a body to write a new constitution. The new president will govern during this process. Whoever wins will lead a divided nation. The result will set Chile's direction on key issues for the next four years.