Gabriel Boric

Rule Changes

As of May 2026: Left office March 11, 2026

Chile produces roughly a quarter of the world's copper and holds the largest lithium reserves on Earth. President Kast took office March 11, 2026, to reverse his predecessor's approach by scrapping plans for a national lithium company, opening the sector to broader private investment, and unlocking $105 billion in stalled mining projects.

Updated May 30

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Leading emergency response

Less than a year after wildfires killed 138 people near Viña del Mar, Chile is burning again. Fires across the Biobío and Ñuble regions have killed at least 21 people since January 16, destroyed over 2,359 homes, and forced more than 50,000 to evacuate.

Updated May 22

Rule Changes

As of May 2026: Term-limited; oversees transition to the next government

Chile's presidential race ended decisively on December 14 when José Antonio Kast defeated Jeannette Jara by about 20 points in the runoff. The country chose a mood: fear of crime and anger over disorder. Two months before his March 11 inauguration, Kast has unveiled a 24-minister cabinet of technocrats and independents rather than party loyalists, signaling his intent to govern pragmatically despite his hardline campaign rhetoric.

Updated May 15